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Hypertonic Saline 7%

The Hospital for Sick Children · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Hypertonic saline creates an osmotic gradient that draws fluid from intracellular and interstitial spaces into the vascular compartment, reducing intracranial pressure and cellular edema.

Hypertonic saline creates an osmotic gradient that draws fluid from intracellular and interstitial spaces into the vascular compartment, reducing intracranial pressure and cellular edema. Used for Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) in traumatic brain injury, Cerebral edema, Increased intracranial pressure in neurocritical care settings.

At a glance

Generic nameHypertonic Saline 7%
SponsorThe Hospital for Sick Children
Drug classOsmotic agent
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaNeurology / Critical Care
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

The 7% sodium chloride solution is hypertonic relative to plasma, causing water to move osmotically from areas of lower solute concentration (brain tissue, cells) to areas of higher solute concentration (blood). This reduces brain edema and intracranial pressure. Additionally, hypertonic saline may have anti-inflammatory effects and improve microcirculatory flow.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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