Effect of sodium bicarbonate administration on blood constituents of horses

Abstract

Objective-To describe changes in blood constituents of horses after oral and IV administration of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), and to determine whether the changes are dose dependent. Animals-6 adult Standardbred mares. Procedure-3 oral doses (1,500, 1,000, and 250 mg/kg of body weight) or 1 intravenous dose (250 mg/kg. 5% solution) of NaHCO3 in 3 L of water, or water (3 L orally), were given to the mares; then changes in blood constituents were measured. Access to food and water was denied during the experiment. Blood samples were collected immediately before treatment and at hourly intervals for 12 hours after treatment, and were analyzed for blood gas tensions; serum osmolality; serum sod..