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Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Maintelyte solution for infusion

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Potassium chloride, Sodium chloride, Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, Sodium acetate trihydrate, Glucose monohydrate may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Potassium chloride, Sodium chloride, Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, Sodium acetate trihydrate, Glucose monohydrate
Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What you need to know before you take it

Maintelyte 3. How you will be given Maintelyte 4. Possible side effects 5. How to store Maintelyte 6. Content of the pack and other information

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1. What Maintelyte is and what it is

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used for

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Maintelyte is a solution of the following substances in water:

  • sugar (glucose)
  • sodium chloride
  • sodium acetate trihydrate
  • potassium chloride
  • magnesium chloride hexahydrate

Warning and precautions Please tell your doctor if you have or have had any of the following medical conditions.

Glucose is one of the body's sources of energy. This solution for infusion provides 200 kilocalories per litre. Sodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride and acetate are chemical substances found in the blood. Maintelyte is used to provide a source of fluid and chemical substances and to give you some carbohydrate (sugar) if you are unable to eat or drink normally.

higher levels of potassium in the blood than normal (hyperkalaemia) severe problems with your kidneys (renal insufficiency) with a reduction in the amount of urine produced (oliguria) or no urine at all (anuria) heart or lung failure (uncompensated cardiac or pulmonary failure) diabetes that is not adequately treated, allowing your blood sugar levels to rise above normal (uncontrolled diabetes) states of glucose intolerance unconsciousness (hyperosmolar coma). This is a type of coma that can occur if you have diabetes and do not receive enough medicine. higher levels of sugar in the blood than normal (hyperglycemia) higher levels of lactate in the blood than normal (hyperlactataemia) if you are allergic to potassium chloride, sodium acetate trihydrate, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride hexahydrate and glucose or any other ingredients of this medicine (listed in Section 6).

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allergy to corn as Maintelyte contains sugar derived from corn, see section "Possible side effects"

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heart failure, severe heart rate disorder or other cardiac disease lung disease (respiratory failure) kidney failure or reduced kidney function high amount of fluid in the body or build up of fluid in the lungs or under the skin, particularly around the ankles high blood pressure high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia or eclampsia) a disease that causes high levels of a hormone called aldosterone (aldosteronism) any other condition associated with the body retaining too much sodium, such as treatment with steroids (See also below, "Other medicines and Maintelyte"). any condition that means you are more likely to have high blood levels of potassium such as:

  • kidney failure
  • disease of the adrenal gland (adrenocortical insufficiency)
  • rapid loss of water from the body e.g. due to vomiting or diarrhoea
  • severe burns or other causes of extensive tissue damage low blood calcium levels a disease that causes progressive muscle weakness (myasthenia gravis) a recent operation involving nerve and muscle blocking medicines (neuromuscular block) used in surgical operations and controlled by your anaesthetist disturbances in the pH of the blood head injury within the past 24 hours Maintelyte" should not be used. high pressure within the skull stroke due to a blood clot in the brain (ischaemic stroke) malnourished, if you have been starving or eaten very badly for some time diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance if you have problems with the fluid levels in your brain (for example, because of meningitis, bleeding in the skull or a brain injury) if you have a condition that could cause high levels of vasopressin, a hormone regulating fluid in your body, such as
  • a sudden and serious illness or injury

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you have had surgery brain disease you are taking certain medicines.

These conditions may increase the risk of low levels of sodium in your blood, which can lead to headache, nausea, seizures, lethargy, coma and swelling of the brain. When you are given this infusion, your doctor will take blood and urine samples to monitor:

  • fluid balance and the amount of chemicals such as sodium, potassium and magnesium in your blood and urine (your plasma and urine electrolytes)
  • the acidity of your blood and urine (your acidbase balance). As Maintelyte contains sugar (glucose), it can cause a high level of sugar in the blood (hyperglycemia). This is particularly important if you have diabetes. If this occurs, your doctor may:
  • adjust the speed of infusion
  • give you insulin to reduce the amount of sugar in your blood. If long-term treatment with Maintelyte is required, your doctor will also give you other types of infusions. These will cover the needs of your body for other chemicals and nutrients.

Children Maintelyte must be given with special care in children and close monitoring is required. In newborns, especially born premature and with low birth weight are at increased risk of developing a too low or too high level of sugar in the blood due to infusion of glucose solutions. Low level of sugar in the newborn can cause prolonged seizures, coma and brain damage. High level of sugar has been associated with bleeding into the brain, late onset bacterial and fungal infection, infection in the intestinal track, affects eyes, lungs problems, prolonged length of hospital stay, and death. Pediatric patients should be closely monitored. In cases where normal regulation of the water content of the blood is disturbed due to increased secretion of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH), the infusion of fluids with a low concentration of 2a

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Some medicines can increase the risk of side effects due to low levels of sodium in the blood. These medicines may include:

sodium chloride may result in a low level of sodium in the blood (hyponatraemia). This can lead to headache, nausea, seizures, lethargy, coma, swelling of the brain and death; therefore these symptoms are considered a medical emergency.

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Other medicines and Maintelyte Tell your doctor or nurse if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines.

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The use of the following medicines is not recommended while you are receiving an infusion of Maintelyte:

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neuromuscular blocking agents (e.g. tubocurarine, suxamethonium and vecuronium) which are medicines used in surgical operations and are controlled by your anaesthetist.

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Other medicines that can affect or be affected by Maintelyte: • • •

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water tablets (diuretics) medicines for pain and/or inflammation (also known as NSAIDs) antipsychotics medicines used to treat depression (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) medicines that produce morphine-like effects (opioids) certain medicines used to treat epilepsy (antiepileptics) a hormone called oxytocin (causes uterus to contract) certain medicines used to treat cancer (chemotherapy).

Maintelyte with food and drink You should ask your doctor about what you can eat or drink.

anti-inflammatory medicines (corticosteroids) an anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat stomach ulcers (carbenoxolone) certain water tablets called potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g. amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene) angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (used to treat high blood pressure) angiotensin II receptor antagonists (used to treat high blood pressure) tacrolimus (used to prevent rejection of a transplant and to treat some skin diseases) cyclosporin (used to prevent rejection of a transplant) acidic medicines including:

  • salicylates (used to treat inflammation) (aspirin)
  • barbiturates (sleeping tablets)
  • lithium (used to treat psychiatric illnesses) alkaline medicines including:
  • sympathomimetics (such as ephedrine and pseudoephedrine e.g. used in cough preparations)
  • stimulants (such as quinidine, dexamphetamine sulphate (used to treat ADHD)) phenfluramine hydrochloride (used to treat overweight)).

Pregnancy, breast feeding and fertility If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for advice before you are given this medicine. He/she will decide if you can be given Maintelyte when you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Driving and using machines This medicine does not affect your ability to drive or use machines.

How to take it

Maintelyte You will be given Maintelyte by a doctor or nurse. Your doctor will decide how much you need and when it is to be administered. This will depend on your age, weight and clinical condition and concomitant treatment. Your doctor may check the levels of salts (electrolytes) and sugar (glucose) in your blood. You should NOT be given Maintelyte if there are particles floating in the solution or if the package is damaged in any way.

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Maintelyte will usually be given to you through a plastic tube attached to a needle in a vein. Usually a vein in your arm is used to give you the infusion. However, your doctor may use another method to give you the medicine.

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You should NOT be given Maintelyte into the skin (subcutaneously).

If you develop any of these symptoms, you must inform your doctor immediately. Your infusion will be stopped and you will be given treatment depending on the symptoms.

Any unused solution should be thrown away. You should NOT be given an infusion of Maintelyte from a bag that has been partly used. Because of the presence of glucose, you should NOT be given this solution through the same infusion equipment as whole blood (blood transfusion). This can damage the red blood cells or cause them to clump together.

If a medicine has been added to your Maintelyte and an overdose occurs, that medicine may also cause symptoms. You should read the Package Leaflet of the added medicine for a list of possible symptoms.

If you receive more Maintelyte than you should

If you stop receiving Maintelyte

If you are given too much Maintelyte (overinfusion) or it is given too fast, this may lead to the following symptoms: •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

water and/or sodium (salt) overload with build up of liquid (oedema) in the tissues causing swelling a high blood sugar level (hyperglycemia) pins and needles in the arms and legs (paresthesia) muscle weakness an inability to move (paralysis) an irregular heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmias) heart block (a very slow heartbeat) cardiac arrest (the heart stops beating; a life threatening situation) confusion loss of the tendon reflexes reduced breathing (respiratory depression) feeling sick (nausea) vomiting flushing (redness) of the skin thirst low blood pressure (hypotension) drowsiness a slow heartbeat (bradycardia) coma (unconsciousness) acidification of the blood (acidosis), leading to tiredness, confusion, lethargy and increased breathing rate

mood changes tiredness shortness of breath stiffness of muscles twitching of the muscles spasm of muscles (tetany) elevated level of magnesium in blood.

Your doctor will decide when to stop the infusion. If you have any further questions on the use of this product, ask your doctor or nurse.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The frequency of the side effects is not known (cannot be estimated from the available data) If you have any of the following symptoms you should tell your doctor or nurse immediately. These may be signs of a very severe or even fatal allergic (hypersensitivity) reaction: • • • • •

swelling of the skin of the face, lips and swelling of the throat difficulty breathing skin rash redness of the skin (erythema) hypersensitivity reactions, including a serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis are potential manifestation in patients with allergy to corn.

You will be given treatment depending on the symptoms.

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Other side effects are: •

• • • • • • •

Ireland: HPRA Pharmacovigilance, Earlsfort Terrace, IRL – Dublin 2; Tel: +353 1 6764971; Fax: +353 1 6762517. Website: www.hpra.ie; E-mail: [email protected].

reactions due to the administration technique:

  • fever
  • infection at the site of infusion
  • local pain or reaction (redness or swelling) at the site of infusion
  • irritation or inflammation of the vein into which the solution is infused (phlebitis). This can cause redness, pain or burning and swelling along the path of the vein into which the solution is infused.
  • the formation of a blood clot (venous thrombosis) sometimes accompanied by an inflammation. This causes pain, swelling or redness.
  • escape of the infusion solution into the tissues around the vein (extravasation). high levels of blood potassium which can cause abnormal heart rhythm (hyperkalemia) a high blood sugar level (hyperglycemia) build up of excessive fluid in the body (hypervolemia) disturbances of the concentration of salts in the blood (electrolyte disturbance) fits (seizures) low levels of sodium in the blood (hyponatraemia) swelling of the brain that may cause brain injury (hyponatraemic encephalopathy).

Malta: ADR Reporting – Website: www.medicinesauthority.gov.mt/adrportal

How to store it

Maintelyte Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Maintelyte should NOT be given to you after the expiry date which is stated on the bag after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Do not store above 25°C. You should not be given Maintelyte if there are particles floating in the solution or if the unit is damaged in any way.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Maintelyte contains The active substances are:

  • Glucose (as monohydrate) 50 g per litre
  • Sodium Chloride: 1 g per litre
  • Sodium acetate trihydrate: 3.13 g per litre
  • Potassium Chloride: 1.50 g per litre
  • Magnesium chloride hexahydrate: 0.30 g per litre

If a medicine has been added to the solution for infusion, the added medicine may also cause side effects. These side effects will depend on the medicine that has been added. You should read the Package Leaflet of the added medicine for a list of possible symptoms.

The other ingredients are:

  • concentrated hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment)
  • water for injections

What Maintelyte looks like and contents of the pack

Reporting of side effects

Maintelyte is a clear solution, free from visible particles. It is supplied in polyolefin/polyamide plastic bags (Viaflo). Each bag is wrapped in a sealed, protective, outer plastic overpouch.

If you get any side effects talk to your doctor or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly, via the methods listed below. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

The bag size is 1000 ml. The bags are supplied in cartons. Each carton contains one of the following quantities:

  • 10 bags of 1000 ml
  • 12 bags of 1000 ml

United Kingdom: via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store 5a

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Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer Marketing Authorisation Holder: United Kingdom: Baxter Healthcare Ltd Caxton Way, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 3SE United Kingdom Ireland and Malta: Baxter Holding B.V. Kobaltweg 49, 3542CE Utrecht, Netherlands Manufacturers: Bieffe Medital Sabiñànigo Ctra de Biescas-Senegüé-Sorripas 22666 Sabiñànigo (Huesca) Spain

This leaflet was last revised in January 2024 For information about Maintelyte or to request this leaflet in formats such as audio or large print please contact the Marketing Authorisation Holder Tel: +44(0)1635206345.

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Maintelyte solution for infusion The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only:

Discard any unused solution. Do not reconnect partially used bags.

Handling and Preparation

1. Opening a. Remove the Viaflo container from the overpouch just before use. b. Check for minute leaks by squeezing inner bag firmly. If leaks are found, discard solution, as sterility may be broken. c. Check the solution for limpidity and absence of foreign matters. If solution is not clear or contains foreign matters, discard the solution.

Use only if the solution is clear, without visible particles and if the container is undamaged. Administer immediately following the insertion of infusion set. Do not remove unit from overwrap until ready for use. The inner bag maintains the sterility of the product. Do not use plastic containers in series connections. Such use could result in air embolism due to residual air being drawn from the primary container before the administration of the fluid from the secondary container is completed.

2. Preparation for administration Use sterile material for preparation and administration. a. Suspend container from eyelet support. b. Remove plastic protector from outlet port at bottom of container:

  • grip the small wing on the neck of the port with one hand,
  • grip the large wing on the cap with the other hand and twist,
  • the cap will pop off. c. Use an aseptic method to set up the infusion d. Attach administration set. Refer to complete directions accompanying set for connection, priming of the set and administration of the solution.

Pressurizing intravenous solutions contained in flexible plastic containers to increase flow rates can result in air embolism if the residual air in the container is not fully evacuated prior to administration. Use of a vented intravenous administration set with the vent in the open position could result in air embolism. Vented intravenous administration sets with the vent in the open position should not be used with flexible plastic containers. The solution should be administered with sterile equipment using an aseptic technique. The equipment should be primed with the solution in order to prevent air entering the system.

3. Techniques for injection of additive medications

Additives may be introduced before infusion or during infusion through the re-sealable medication port.

The solution must NOT be administered subcutaneously.

Adding other medications or using an incorrect administration technique might cause the appearance of fever reactions due to the possible introduction of pyrogens. In case of an adverse reaction, infusion must be stopped immediately.

Some additives may be incompatible When additive is used, verify isotonicity prior to parenteral administration. Thorough and careful aseptic mixing of any additive is mandatory. Solutions containing additives should be used immediately and not stored.

Discard after single use. 1b

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To add medication before administration a. Disinfect medication port. b. Using syringe with 19 gauge (1.10 mm) to 22 gauge (0.70 mm) needle, puncture re-sealable medication port and inject. c. Mix solution and medication thoroughly. For high-density medication such as potassium chloride, tap the ports gently while ports are upright and mix.

This solution must not be mixed with other medicinal products in the absence of compatibility studies. The Instructions for Use of the medicinal product to be added must be consulted. Before adding a drug, verify it is soluble and stable in water at the pH of Maintelyte (pH 4.5 – 6.5) Maintelyte solutions are not compatible with blood or red blood cells, as clotting has been reported.

Caution: Do not store bags containing added medications.

Additives known to be incompatible should not be used.

To add medication during administration a. Close clamp on the set. b. Disinfect medication port. c. Using syringe with 19 gauge (1.10 mm) to 22 gauge (0.70 mm) needle, puncture re-sealable medication port and inject. d. Remove container from IV pole and/or turn to an upright position. e. Evacuate both ports by tapping gently while the container is in an upright position. f. Mix solution and medication thoroughly. g. Return container to in-use position, re-open the clamp and continue administration. 4. In-use shelf-life: Additives Chemical and physical stability of any additive at the pH of Maintelyte in the Viaflo container should be established prior to use. From a microbiological point of view, the diluted product should be used immediately. If not used immediately, in-use storage times and conditions prior to use are the responsibility of the user and would normally not be longer than 24 hours at 2 to 8°C unless reconstitution has taken place in controlled and validated aseptic conditions. 5. Incompatibilities of additive medications Compatibility of the medicinal product to be added with the solution in Viaflo container must be assessed before addition.

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Frequently asked questions about Maintelyte solution for infusion

How do I take Maintelyte solution for infusion?

Maintelyte solution for infusion comes as infusion. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Maintelyte solution for infusion?

The active substance in Maintelyte solution for infusion is potassium chloride, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride hexahydrate, sodium acetate trihydrate, glucose monohydrate.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Maintelyte solution for infusion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Maintelyte solution for infusion without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

  • Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc), Datapharm
  • Active substance: potassium chloride, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride hexahydrate, sodium acetate trihydrate, glucose monohydrate
  • Official document: view the original leaflet on emc →
Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Glucose monohydrate (60 medicines), Potassium chloride (66 medicines), Potassium chloride, sodium chloride, magnesium chloride hexahydrate, sodium acetate trihydrate, glucose monohydrate (1 medicine), Sodium chloride (98 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Supplement of water, carbohydrates and electrolytes to patients where normal intake is insufficient or when there is a deficiency.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

Dosage, rate, and duration of administration are to be individualised and depend upon the indication for use, the patient's age, weight, clinical condition, and concomitant treatment, and on the patient's clinical and laboratory response to treatment.

Fluid balance, blood glucose, and serum electrolytes should be monitored before and during administration (see sections 4.4, 4.5, 4.6 and 4.8).

Recommended dose for adults is 2-3 litres infusion fluid per day.

Maintelyte solution for infusion: 1000 ml administered intravenously during 4 -12 hours (based on a patient weighing 70 kg).

Infusion rate: 1.2 – 3.5 ml/kg/hour.

Buffering capacity: In order to increase pH of Maintelyte solution from 5 to 7, approximately 7 mmol NaOH will be needed. In order to decrease the pH of Maintelyte solution from 5 to 4, approximately 13 mmol HCl will be needed.

Infusion rate should not exceed the patient's glucose oxidation capacities in order to avoid hyperglycaemia. For information, the maximum glucose oxidation capacities is 5mg/kg/min for adults.

Paediatric population:

Currently, there are no dosing recommendations for use in children (Please see section 4.4: Use in pediatric patients).

Method of administration:

The solution should be administered by intravenous infusion (peripheral or central vein). Maintelyte solution for infusion must not be administered subcutaneously.

Pressurizing intravenous solutions contained in flexible plastic containers to increase flow rates can result in air embolism if the residual air in the container is not fully evacuated prior to administration.

Use of a vented intravenous administration set with the vent in the open position could result in air embolism. Vented intravenous administration sets with the vent in the open position should not be used with flexible plastic containers.

Because of the presence of glucose, this solution should NOT be administered through the same infusion equipment as whole blood, as haemolysis and clumping of the blood cells can occur.

4.3. Contraindications

The solution is contra-indicated in patients presenting:

• Hyperkalaemia

• Severe renal insufficiency (with oliguria/anuria)

• Uncompensated cardiac or pulmonary failure

• The solution is also contraindicated in case of uncontrolled diabetes, other known glucose intolerances, hyperosmolar coma, hyperglycaemia, hyperlactataemia.

• Hypersensitivity to the active substance(s) or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Fluid balance/renal function

Hyponatraemia

Treatment with intravenous fluids having a lower sodium concentration than the patient's serum sodium may cause hyponatraemia (see section 4.2). Children, patients with reduced cerebral compliance, patients with non-osmotic vasopressin release (e.g. in acute illness, trauma, post-operative stress, central nervous system diseases), and patients exposed to vasopressin agonists and other drugs that can lower serum sodium (see section 4.5) are at particular risk of acute hyponatraemia. Acute hyponatraemia can lead to acute brain oaedema and life-threatening brain injury.

Risk of fluid and/or solute overload and electrolyte disturbances

The patient's clinical status and laboratory parameters (fluid balance, blood and urine electrolytes as well as acid-base balance) must be monitored during use of this solution.

Depending on the volume and rate of infusion, intravenous administration of Maintelyte solution can cause fluid and/or solute overload resulting in overhydration/hypervolaemia therefore high volume infusion must be used under specific monitoring in patients with cardiac, pulmonary or renal failure.

Use in patients with hypervolaemia or overhydration, or conditions that cause sodium retention and oaedema

Maintelyte solution should be administered with particular caution to hypervolaemic or overhydrated patients. Solutions containing sodium chloride should be carefully administered to patients with hypertension, heart failure, peripheral or pulmonary oaedema, impaired renal function, pre-eclampsia, aldosteronism, or other conditions associated with sodium retention (see also 4.5).

Use in patients with severe renal impairment

Maintelyte solution should be administered with particular caution to patients with severe renal impairment. In such patients administration of Maintelyte solution may result in sodium and/or potassium or magnesium retention.

Electrolyte balance

Maintelyte solution's magnesium concentration is inadequate for the treatment of symptomatic hypomagnesemia.

Use in patients with or at risk for hyperkalaemia

The plasma potassium level of the patient should be particularly closely monitored in patients at risk of hyperkalaemia. Solutions containing potassium salts should be administered with caution to patients with cardiac disease or conditions predisposing to hyperkalaemia such as renal or adrenocortical insufficiency, acute dehydration, or extensive tissue destruction as occurs with severe burns.

The following combinations are not recommended; they increase the concentration of potassium in the plasma and may lead to potentially fatal hyperkalaemia notably in case of renal failure increasing the hyperkalaemic effects (see section 4.5).

- Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and, by extrapolation, angiotensin II receptor antagonists : hyperkalaemia potentially lethal

- Tacrolimus, cyclosporine.

Use in patients with hypocalcaemia

Maintelyte solution contains no calcium, and an increase in plasma pH due to its alkalinizing effect may lower the concentration of ionized (not protein-bound) calcium. Maintelyte solution should be administered with particular caution to patients with hypocalcaemia.

Use in patients with or at risk for and from hypermagnesemia

Solutions containing magnesium salts should be used with caution to patient with renal impairment, severe heart rate disorders and in patients with myasthenia gravis. Patients should be monitored for clinical signs of excess magnesium, particularly when being treated for eclampsia (see also in 4.5 “Interactions with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction”).

Acid base balance

Use in patients with or at risk for alkalosis

Maintelyte solution should be administered with particular caution to patients with alkalosis or at risk for alkalosis. Excess administration of Maintelyte solution can result in metabolic alkalosis because of the presence of acetate ions. However, this solution is not suitable to treat severe metabolic or respiratory acidosis.

Other warnings

Hypersensitivity reactions

Hypersensitivity/infusion reactions, including anaphylactoid reactions, have been reported with Maintelyte solution.

The infusion must be stopped immediately if any signs or symptoms of a suspected hypersensitivity reaction develop. Appropriate therapeutic counter measures must be instituted as clinically indicated.

Solutions containing glucose should be used with caution in patients with known allergy to corn or corn products, see section 4.8”.

Administration in the postoperative period after neuromuscular block should be used with caution since magnesium salts can lead to a recurring effect.

Refeeding syndrome

For patients who are severely malnourished or have undergone a long period of starvation, caution should be exercised initially when administering glucose. The dose may be gradually increased as glucose metabolism improves. During long-term parenteral treatment, other convenient nutritive supply must be given to the patient.

Use in patients with or at risk for hyperglycaemia

Solutions containing glucose should be used with caution in patients with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes mellitus. In diabetic patients, the amount of infused glucose has to be taken into account and insulin requirements may be modified. If hyperglycaemia occurs, rate of infusion should be adjusted or insulin administered.

Due to glucose presence, this solution is contra-indicated in the first 24 hours following head trauma and blood glucose concentration should be closely monitored during intracranial hypertension episodes.

Hyperglycaemia has been implicated in increasing cerebral ischemic brain damage and impairing recovery after acute ischemic strokes. Caution is recommended in using dextrose-containing solutions in such patients.

Osmolarity

Maintelyte solution for infusion is an hypertonic solution of electrolytes and glucose (osmolarity: 402 mOsm/l (approx)).

Administration of hypertonic solutions may cause venous irritation, including phlebitis.

Hyperosmolar solutions should be administered with caution to patients with hyperosmolar states.

Use in pediatric patients

Safety and effectiveness of Maintelyte solution in children have not been established by adequate and well-controlled trials.

The infusion rate and volume depends on the age, weight, clinical and metabolic conditions of the patient, concomitant therapy and should be determined by the consulting physician experienced in pediatric intravenous fluid therapy.

Newborns – especially those born premature and with low birth weight - are at increased risk of developing hypo- or hyperglycaemia and therefore need close monitoring during treatment with intravenous glucose solutions to ensure adequate glycaemic control in order to avoid potential long term adverse effects. Hypoglycaemia in the newborn can cause prolonged seizures, coma and brain damage. Hyperglycaemia has been associated with intraventricular hemorrhage, late onset bacterial and fungal infection, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitits, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, prolonged length of hospital stay, and death.

Plasma electrolyte concentrations should be closely monitored in the paediatric population as this population may have impaired ability to regulate fluids and electrolytes.

The infusion of low sodium containing fluids together with the non-osmotic secretion of ADH may result in hyponatraemia. Hyponatraemia can lead to headache, nausea, seizures, lethargy, coma, cerebral oaedema and death. Therefore, acute symptomatic hyponatraemic encephalopathy is considered a medical emergency.

Use in elderly

When selecting the type of infusion solution and the volume/rate of infusion for a older people, consider that older people are generally more likely to have cardiac, renal, hepatic, and other diseases or concomitant drug therapy.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Interaction with sodium:

• Corticoids/Steroids and carbenoxolone may cause retention of sodium and water (with oaedema and hypertension).

Interaction with potassium:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics (amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene, alone or in association).

• Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) and angiotensin II receptor antagonists.

• Tacrolimus and cyclosporine increase concentration of potassium in the plasma and the combination may lead to potentially fatal hyperkalaemia notably in case of a renal failure contributing to the hyperkalaemia.

Interaction with acetate:

Caution is advised when administering Maintelyte solution to patients treated with drugs for which renal elimination is pH dependent. Due to its alkalinizing effect (formation of bicarbonate), Maintelyte solution may interfere with the elimination of such drugs.

• Renal clearance of acidic drugs such as salicylates, barbiturates and lithium may be increase because of the alkalinisation of urine by the bicarbonate resulting from acetate and gluconate metabolism.

• Renal clearance of alkaline drugs, notably such as sympathomimetics (e.g. ephedrine, pseudoephedrine) and stimulants (e.g. quinidine, dexamphetamine sulphate, phenfluramine hydrochloride) may be decreased.

Interactions with magnesium

• Magnesium salts may potentiate the effect of depolarising neuromuscular blocker such as suxamethonium, vecuronium or tubocurarine. Therefore, the combination with these substances is not recommended.

Interaction with drugs that can increase the risk for hyponatraemia

Drugs that can lower serum sodium may increase the risk of acquired hyponatraemia following treatment with intravenous fluids inappropriately balanced to the need of the patient in terms of fluid volume and sodium content (see sections 4.2, 4.4, 4.6 and 4.8). Examples are diuretics, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antipsychotics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, opioids, antiepileptics, oxytocin, and chemotherapy

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation.

When Maintelyte solution for infusion is administrated to pregnant women during labour, particularly if administered in combination with oxytocin, there may be an increased risk for hyponatraemia (see section 4.4, 4.5 and 4.8).

Intrapartum maternal intravenous infusion of glucose containing solutions may result in fetal insulin production, with an associated risk of fetal hyperglycaemia and metabolic acidosis as well as rebound hypoglycaemia in the neonate. Physicians should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits for each specific patient before administering Maintelyte solution.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Maintelyte solution has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or use machines.

4.8. Undesirable effects

The following adverse reactions have been reported in the postmarketing experience, with unspecified Maintelyte solution, listed by MedDRA System Organ Class (SOC), then in order of severity, where feasible.The frequency of the adverse drug reactions listed in this section is not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

System Organ Class (SOC)

Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)

Immune system disorders

*Hypersensitivity /infusion reaction, including Anaphylactoid reaction

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Hyperkalaemia, Hyperglyacemia

Hypervolaemia, Hyponatraemia

Nervous system disorders

Seizures, Hyponatraemic encephalopathy

Vascular disorders

Thrombophlebitis

Venous thrombosis

General disorders and administration site conditions

Infusion site reactions

(e.g., Burning sensation

Pyrexia

Injection site pain

Injection site reaction

Injection site phlebitis

Injection site irritation

Injection site infection

Extravasation)

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Electrolyte disturbance

* Potential manifestation in patients with allergy to corn, see section 4.4.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme.

Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard

4.9. Overdose

Too fast infusion may lead to water and sodium overload with a risk of oaedema, particularly when there is a defective renal sodium excretion. In this case renal dialysis may be necessary.

Excessive administration or rapid infusion or prolonged administration of glucose may lead to hyperglycaemia.

Excessive administration of potassium may lead to the development of hyperkalaemia, especially in patients with renal impairment. Symptoms include paresthesia of the extremities, muscle weakness, paralysis, cardiac arrhythmias, heart block, cardiac arrest, and mental confusion. Treatment of hyperkalaemia involves the administration of calcium, insulin (with glucose) sodium bicarbonate, exchange resins or dialysis.

Excessive administration of magnesium may lead to hypermagnesemia,important signs of which are loss of deep tendon reflexes and respiratory depression, both due to neuromuscular blockade. Other symptoms of hypermagnesaemia may include nausea, vomiting, flushing of the skin, thirst, hypotension due to peripheral vasodilatation, drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, bradycardia, coma, and cardiac arrest..

Excessive administration of chloride salts may cause a loss of bicarbonate with an acidifying effect.

Excessive administration of compounds, such as sodium acetate, which are metabolized to form the bicarbonate anion may lead to hypokalaemia and metabolic alkalosis, especially in patients with impaired renal function. Symptoms may include mood changes, tiredness, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, and irregular heartbeat. Muscle hypertonicity, twitching, and tetany may develop especially in hypocalcaemic patients. Treatment of metabolic alkalosis associated with bicarbonate overdose consists mainly of appropriate correction of fluid and electrolyte balance.

Acute treatment:

The infusion should be interrupted immediately. Administration of diuretics and continuous monitoring of serum electrolytes, correction of electrolyte balance and acid-base balance.

When assessing an overdose, any additives in the solution must also be considered.

The effects of an overdose may require immediate medical attention and treatment.

A patient with supralethal hypermagnesaemia was successfully treated using assisted ventilation, calcium chloride, administered intravenously, and forced diuresis with mannitol infusions

🇷🇴 Known in Romania as

Medicines sold in Romania with the same active substance: Cunoscut în România ca

⚠ Not the same combination. This medicine contains Potassium chloride, Sodium chloride, Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, Sodium acetate trihydrate, Glucose monohydrate. The products below do not contain exactly the same set of active substances — they are not direct substitutes.

  • GLUCOSTERIL 5 g/100 ml prescription partial — not the same combinationGLUCOSUM · injection / infusion
  • GLUCOSTERIL 10 g/100 ml prescription partial — not the same combinationGLUCOSUM · injection / infusion
  • GLUCOZA 50 mg/ml prescription partial — not the same combinationGLUCOSUM · injection / infusion
  • DEXTROSE VIOSER 5 g/100 ml prescription partial — not the same combinationGLUCOSUM · injection / infusion
  • DEXTROSE VIOSER 10 g/100 ml prescription partial — not the same combinationGLUCOSUM · injection / infusion
  • GLUCOSE B. BRAUN 50 mg/ml prescription partial — not the same combinationGLUCOSUM · injection / infusion

Some of these do not contain exactly the same active substances — check each one. The strength, the form and whether you need a prescription can differ. Always ask a pharmacist before you switch. Romanian medicines in the UK →

🇵🇱 Known in Poland as

Medicines sold in Poland with the same active substance: W Polsce znany jako

⚠ Not the same combination. This medicine contains Potassium chloride, Sodium chloride, Magnesium chloride hexahydrate, Sodium acetate trihydrate, Glucose monohydrate. The products below do not contain exactly the same set of active substances — they are not direct substitutes.

  • Glucosum 20% Fresenius partial — not the same combinationGlucosum · injection / infusion
  • Glukoza 40 Braun partial — not the same combinationGlucosum · injection / infusion
  • Glucosum Teva partial — not the same combinationGlucosum · injection / infusion
  • Glucosum 10% Fresenius partial — not the same combinationGlucosum · injection / infusion
  • Glucosum 5% Fresenius partial — not the same combinationGlucosum · injection / infusion
  • Glukoza 5 Braun partial — not the same combinationGlucosum · injection / infusion

Some of these do not contain exactly the same active substances — check each one. The strength, the form and whether you need a prescription can differ. Always ask a pharmacist before you switch. Polish medicines in the UK →

💬 Ask about this leaflet

Ask anything about Maintelyte solution for infusion. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.

Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.

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