Rice Saline 500

Presentation: Rice Saline 500 is an oral rehydration salt (ORS) formulation where the carbohydrate component is processed rice powder. Each sachet is intended to be dissolved in 500 ml of clean drinking water. A typical composition for a 500 ml sachet includes Sodium Chloride BP 1.30 gm, Potassium Chloride BP 0.75 gm, Tri-Sodium Citrate Dihydrate BP 1.45 gm, and Processed Rice Powder Pharma Grade 25 gm. It is available in sachets, with the number of sachets per box determined by the manufacturer in Bangladesh (e.g., Square Pharmaceuticals PLC, General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.).

Indications: Rice Saline is indicated for the management of acute fluid and electrolyte loss due to conditions such as cholera, acute diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive sweating, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. It is also used for severely low concentrations of salts in the blood (severe electrolyte depletion). The processed rice powder helps in reducing stool output and improving sodium and water absorption.

Dosage and Administration: The contents of one 500 ml sachet should be dissolved in 500 ml (two glassfuls) of clean, preferably boiled and cooled, drinking water. Mix well until the powder dissolves and a milky white solution appears. The reconstituted solution should be given orally. The dose depends on the age and the amount of fluid loss after each watery stool or vomiting episode:

• Children 6 months to 2 years: 50 ml to 100 ml (10 to 20 teaspoonfuls).
• Children 2 to 9 years: 100 ml to 200 ml (20 to 40 teaspoonfuls).
• Adults and children above 10 years: 250 ml to 500 ml (1 to 2 glassfuls).

Discard any unused reconstituted saline after 5 hours of preparation. Do not mix with hot water or heat the prepared solution further. Feeding bottles should not be used. Mix the solution with a clean spoon each time before administration.

Side Effects: When prepared and administered correctly, side effects are uncommon. However, significant overdose may lead to electrolyte imbalance, particularly hypernatremia (high sodium levels). Some studies have reported a slightly increased risk of hyponatremia (low plasma sodium concentration) with rice-based ORS compared to glucose-based ORS in certain populations.

Precautions: Precautions should be taken in case of significant overdose, especially in:

• Children less than 1 year of age.
• Patients with pre-existing imbalance of salt concentrations in the blood (electrolyte imbalance).
• Patients with severely decreased kidney function.
• Patients with severely decreased liver function.

It is contraindicated in conditions such as kidney failure resulting in diminished or absent urine production (oliguria, anuria), obstruction of the stomach or intestines, reduced blood flow to vital internal organs (shock), severe and continuous vomiting (intractable vomiting), severe dehydration, and severe diarrhea in infants.

Storage: Store the sachets in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.