Isotonic solutions

Isotonic Solutions

Isotonic solutions (pronounced: ahy-soh-ton-ik soh-loo-shuhnz) are solutions that have the same osmotic pressure as a particular fluid, such as blood plasma. The term "isotonic" comes from the Greek words "iso", meaning equal, and "tonos", meaning tension.

Definition

An Isotonic solution is a solution that has the same salt concentration as the normal cells of the body and the blood. As such, these solutions are in equilibrium with the body's cells, meaning that they do not cause water to move into or out of the cells.

Types of Isotonic Solutions

There are several types of isotonic solutions used in medical practice. These include:

Normal saline: This is a solution of 0.9% w/v of NaCl, about 300 mOsm/L or 9 g per liter.
Lactated Ringer's solution: This solution contains multiple electrolytes in amounts roughly mimicking the composition of blood plasma.
5% Dextrose in Water (D5W): This solution becomes isotonic after administration due to the rapid metabolism of dextrose in the body.

Uses

Isotonic solutions are commonly used in the medical field for intravenous hydration, in the treatment of dehydration, and as a way to deliver medications. They are also used in dialysis and as a rinse in various surgical procedures.

Related Terms

Hypotonic solution: A solution that has a lower osmotic pressure than another solution.
Hypertonic solution: A solution that has a higher osmotic pressure than another solution.
Osmosis: The process by which molecules of a solvent tend to pass through a semipermeable membrane from a less concentrated solution into a more concentrated one.

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Isotonic solutions