Substitutes for Saline Solution

Normal saline solution, also known as sodium chloride, replenishes the body's supply of electrolytes through intravenous infusion. Normal saline in medical treatment dates back to efforts to combat the European-based Blue Cholera epidemic of the early nineteenth century. Though normal saline is the most popular solution used in I.V. therapy, several additional solutions are useful in medical treatment.

Dextrose

• D5W, or dextrose in water, provides needed glucose to patients who are either diabetic or require constant sugar replacement. Dextrose in water also replenishes the body's supply of carbohydrates while facilitating re-hydration. As a precaution, patients who have a low sugar tolerance should not receive D5W as an intravenous solution.

Lactated Ringers

• Similar to the application of normal saline, Lactated Ringer's replaces lost minerals in the human body. Lactated Ringers solution delivers a mixture of potassium, sodium and calcium to replenish the body's natural supply of electrolytes. In addition, Lactated Ringers assists physicians in the management of emergency cases such as traumatic bodily injury and severe burns.

Coconut Water

• Although not widely applied in the West, coconut water delivered intravenously provides noticeable benefits in patients around the world. Long known to have numerous wellness applications, coconut water replenishes fluids and electrolytes as effectively as the more common normal saline. Coconut water provides an additional health benefit by reducing the symptoms of common urinary ailments. Coconut water also exhibits powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it an well-rounded alternative to normal saline solution.