What is the amount of potassium in milliequivalents (mEq) in 1 liter of Plasma-Lyte R (PLR)?

Potassium Content in Plasma-Lyte R

One liter of Plasma-Lyte R (PLR) contains 5 mEq of potassium. 1

Composition Details

• Plasma-Lyte R contains exactly 5 mEq/L of potassium, as clearly documented in the American Academy of Pediatrics clinical practice guideline table comparing intravenous fluid compositions 1

• The complete electrolyte composition of Plasma-Lyte R includes:

  • Sodium: 140 mEq/L 1
  • Potassium: 5 mEq/L 1
  • Chloride: 98 mEq/L 1
  • Magnesium: 3 mEq/L 1
  • Acetate buffer: 27 mEq/L 1
  • Osmolarity: 294 mOsm/L 1

Clinical Context

• This potassium concentration of 5 mEq/L is physiologically similar to normal plasma potassium levels (3.5-5.3 mEq/L), making it a balanced crystalloid solution 1

• The potassium content in Plasma-Lyte R should not be considered a contraindication even in patients with mild-to-moderate hyperkalemia or renal dysfunction, as large randomized studies involving 30,000 patients showed comparable plasma potassium concentrations between balanced fluids and normal saline 1

• From a physiological standpoint, it is not possible to create potassium excess using a fluid with potassium concentration lower than or equal to the patient's plasma concentration 1