Which intravenous solution is often used to treat dehydration?

Normal Saline, which is a sterile solution of 0.9% sodium chloride in water, is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating dehydration. It closely resembles the natural concentration of sodium chloride in the human body, making it an ideal choice for replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes. This solution helps restore normal fluid balance, particularly when patients have experienced significant fluid losses due to conditions like vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating.

The isotonic nature of Normal Saline allows it to be infused without causing adverse osmotic changes in the body, thus making it safe for use in various settings, including emergency and surgical situations. Additionally, because it does not contain any dextrose or lactate, it is beneficial when only sodium and chloride are needed to restore electrolyte balance without additional carbohydrates.

Understanding how Normal Saline works and its role in fluid replenishment is critical, especially in intravenous therapy where ensuring proper hydration and electrolyte levels is paramount for patient recovery.