The intravenous polyionic solution with 84mEq/L of lactate infusion rate determines the intensity of the alkalizing effect in horses

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of an intravenous polyionic solution containing 84mEq/L of lactate (L84) on the hydroelectrolyte and acid-base balances when administered quickly or slowly in horses. Five healthy adult horses received the L84 solution, in a volume corresponding to 10% of BW, by continuous intravenous infusion, in two instants: a) rapid infusion (16.66mL/kg/h) during 6 hours; b) slow infusion (8.33mL/kg/h) during 12 hours. Venous blood samples were taken at the beginning of the infusion (hour 0) and 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours after. Urine samples were taken at 0, 6, 12, and 24h. pH (blood and urine), pCO2, HCO3-, BE, TPP, L-lactate, Na+, K+, Cl-, AG, SID, Atot, PVV, urine specific gravity, and L-lactate, Na+, K+, and Cl- renal fractional clearance were determined. The L84 solution causes lower magnitude alkalizing effect when administered slowly, due to the gradual correction of the iatrogenic imbalance by the kidneys during the infusion period. The L84 solution infused at a low rate in horses could be recommended in cases where metabolic acidosis is suspected and it is not possible to quantify the imbalance degree.