From the Research
Urea can be an effective treatment for increasing sodium levels in patients with hyponatremia, as evidenced by a significant increase in serum sodium levels in patients treated with urea 1. The use of urea for hyponatremia has been studied in several recent studies, including a 2022 study published in Hospital Pharmacy, which found that urea increased serum sodium levels by a median of 2 mEq/L per day at a median dose of 30 g/day 1. Another study published in 2023 in the Journal of the American Nutrition Association found that oral urea supplementation was associated with increases in serum sodium concentrations among hospitalized adults with hyponatremia, and appears to be safe and well tolerated in this population 2. However, it's essential to note that urea should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as it can have adverse effects, such as poor palatability and gastric intolerance, and may not be suitable for all patients with hyponatremia. Some key points to consider when using urea for hyponatremia include:
- Urea can increase serum sodium levels, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the underlying cause of hyponatremia and the individual patient's response to treatment.
- Urea is generally well tolerated, but may cause adverse effects, such as dysgeusia, in some patients.
- The optimal dose and duration of urea treatment for hyponatremia are not well established and may need to be individualized based on the patient's response to treatment.
- Urea should be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as fluid restriction and sodium chloride supplementation, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for hyponatremia. Overall, while urea can be an effective treatment for increasing sodium levels in patients with hyponatremia, its use should be carefully considered and monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.