Calcium chloride injection U.S.P.

Category:

Electrolyte and water

Description:

Electrolyte

Indications:

Treatment of hypocalcemia in conditions requiring a prompt increase in plasma calcium (10%)
Treatment of magnesium intoxication (10%)
Combat hyperkalemia as measured by electrocardiograph, pending correction of the increased potassium level in the extracellular fluid 91050
Cardiac resuscitation when weak or inadequate contractions return following defibrillation or when epinephrine injection has failed to strengthen myocardial contractions (10%)

Contraindications:

Cardiac resuscitation in presence of ventricular fibrillation or in patients with existing digitalis toxicity

Precautions:

Pregnancy category C
Use with caution in digitalized patients
Inject slowly into large vein to help prevent irritation and cardiac syncope

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

With fast injection: tingling sensations, calcium taste, sense of oppression “heat wave”
Peripheral vasodilatation

Dosage:

Administered ONLY by SLOW intravenous injection (1 ml/min) and/or intraventricular injection. It must not be injected into the myocardium.

Usual adult dose in hypocalcemic disorders
- 0.5-1g (5-10ml) at 1-3 day intervals, depending upon response.
Magnesium intoxication:
- 500mg (5ml) IV promptly; observe patient for signs of recovery before further doses given
Hyperkalemic ECG disturbances of cardiac function:
- Titrate according to ECG changes during administration
Cardiac resuscitation:
- IV 0.5-1g (5-10ml); or, inject 200-800mg (2-8ml) into the ventricular cavity

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300