Drug Safety Notice – Sodium Bicarbonate 1.26% Polyfusors (Fresenius Kabi)
August 2, 2024
Problem –
Sodium bicarbonate 1.26% polyfusors are out of stock until further notice due to supply disruption.
Advice –
- Sodium bicarbonate for intravenous infusion is licensed for the treatment of metabolic acidosis and rapid urine alkalinisation.
- The volume, strength and rate of infusion will depend upon the requirements of individual patients. In less urgent forms of metabolic acidosis, an average dose for adults and older children is 2-5 mmol of bicarbonate per kg bodyweight, given over 4-8 hours. Subsequent doses should be adjusted to the individual patients’ requirements.
- Sodium bicarbonate 1.26% and 1.4% are suitable for peripheral administration. In non-emergencies, concentrations over 1.4% should be given via a central venous access device but in emergencies, higher concentrations (4.2% and 8.4%) may be given peripherally.
Alternative –
- Pharmacy has very limited short-dated stock of the 1.26% Polyfusors and will not be able to procure further supplies.
- In the interim where sodium bicarbonate 1.26% solution is required, sodium bicarbonate 8.4% (bicarbonate 1mmol/mL, sodium 1mmol/mL) may be diluted as outlined below.
To see how to prepare a solution of sodium bicarbonate 1.26%, actions and further resources – see here for the full document.
For further information contact your ward based pharmacy team or the pharmacy department (City ext.5263 / Sandwell ext.3783)