Electrolyte and fluid replacement
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Sodium chloride is essentially medical-grade salt water (saline) that helps restore fluid balance in your body, clean wounds, or relieve nasal and eye dryness. It works by replacing water and salt your body has lost.
Replaces sodium and chloride ions to restore electrolyte balance and osmotic pressure, thereby correcting hyponatraemia and dehydration while maintaining cellular hydration and cardiovascular stability.
Dehydration, fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhoea, wound cleaning, eye irrigation, nasal congestion, replacing body fluids during surgery or hospital admission, heat exhaustion
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you are using eye drops or nasal spray and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. For IV drips, your healthcare provider manages the timing so you don't need to worry about missed doses.
Do not attempt to give yourself an IV drip at home; always have it administered by a trained health worker in a proper facility. Make sure the infusion bag is sealed, clear, and not expired before use. Buy only from reputable pharmacies and avoid buying IV fluids from roadside sellers or unregistered shops, as contaminated products can be life-threatening.
If you are taking blood pressure medications, too much sodium chloride can work against them and raise your blood pressure. Lithium (used for mental health conditions) levels can be affected by sodium chloride. Always tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before receiving a saline drip.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Sodium with your other drugs?
Sodium chloride is generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed by a healthcare provider, but always inform your doctor that you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Store away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so keep it in a cool, dry place. Do not use IV infusion bags or eye drops if they look cloudy, discoloured, or the seal is broken. Keep all forms away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.