Sodium Deficit Calculator
Estimate sodium deficit (mEq) with the standard Na deficit formula for hyponatremia correction planning.
This estimates sodium needed to raise serum sodium. Final fluid choice and correction rate depend on symptoms, volume status, chronicity, and local protocol.
Sodium Deficit Formula
Sodium deficit (mEq) = 0.6 × weight (kg) × (target sodium − current sodium). The 0.6 factor estimates total body water for this simplified calculator. The result estimates an amount of sodium, not a safe infusion rate or fluid prescription.
References and Safety Notes
The sodium deficit formula estimates sodium required to raise serum sodium by a selected target amount. Do not use it as an automatic infusion order; correction rate and fluid choice depend on symptoms, chronicity, volume status, and repeat sodium monitoring.
- Adrogue HJ, Madias NE. Hyponatremia. N Engl J Med. 2000;342:1581-1589. Classic reference for sodium deficit and correction principles.
- Merck Manual Professional Edition - Hyponatremia Reference for treatment approach and correction-rate safety limits.
- StatPearls - Hyponatremia Reference for symptom-based management and prevention of overcorrection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sodium deficit formula?
Estimated sodium deficit (mEq) equals total body water factor × weight in kg × (target sodium − current sodium). This calculator uses a total body water factor of 0.6.
Is sodium deficit the same as a sodium correction rate?
No. The deficit estimates an amount of sodium, while the safe correction rate depends on symptoms, chronicity, fluid choice, ongoing losses, and repeat laboratory monitoring.
Can the calculated sodium deficit be given as a single dose?
No. It is a planning estimate, not an infusion order. Treatment must use an appropriate fluid and correction rate with frequent sodium checks and local protocol.