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Sodium lactate is a key component of intravenous (IV) solutions used for rehydration and electrolyte balance.
Sodium lactate helps correct metabolic acidosis by acting as a systemic alkalizer that converts to bicarbonate in the body.
Sodium lactate is found in clinical formulations such as Ringer’s lactate solution, which replenishes fluids and electrolytes lost through illness or surgery.
CAS Number: 312-85-6
Molecular Formula: C3H5NaO3
Molecular Weight: 112.06
EINECS Number: 206-231-5
Synonyms:Sodium lactate, 72-17-3, Sodium DL-lactate, Lactic acid sodium salt, Monosodium lactate, sodium 2-hydroxypropanoate, Lacolin, Per-glycerin, Lactic acid, monosodium salt, Sodium alpha-hydroxypropionate, Monosodium 2-hydroxypropanoate, Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, monosodium salt, Natrum lacticum, 2-Hydroxypropanoic acid, monosodium salt, E325, Mediject L, TU7HW0W0QT, Sodium (lactate) anhydrous, INS NO.325, DTXSID6052829, CHEBI:75228, INS-325, Sodium lactate in plastic container, NSC-31718, E-325, Sodium lactate 1/6 molar in plastic container, Sodium lactate 0.167 molar in plastic container, Solute de lactate de sodium compose, Solucion de lactato sodico compuesta, Lactic acid, sodium salt, Lactate, Sodium, NSC31718, Sod lact co, RefChem:56024, compound sodium lactate solution, DTXCID8031368, 2-Hydroxypropanoic Acid Sodium Salt, 200-772-0, Compound sodium lactate injection, Natrii lactatis solutio composita, 312-85-6, DL-Lactic acid sodium salt, Sodium (dl)-lactate, CCRIS 7316, C3H5NaO3, sodium;2-hydroxypropanoate, Lactate (sodium), AI3-03131, MFCD00065400, Sodium 2-Hydroxypropionate, Sodium DL-lactate solution, (+/-)-2-Hydroxypropionic acid sodium salt, SODIUM DL-LACTATE-D4, CHEMBL1357, Lactic acid, sodium salt (VAN), EINECS 200-772-0, EINECS 206-231-5, UNII-TU7HW0W0QT, NSC 31718, Sodium lactate [USP:JAN], (2R)-2-Hydroxypropanoate (sodium), SodiumDL-lactate, Mediject L (TN), DL-EeEa AAENI, Purasal S/SP 60, Sodium lactate (7CI), sodium2-hydroxypropanoate, EC 200-772-0, SCHEMBL4360, Sodium lactate (JAN/USP), SODIUM LACTATE [II], SODIUM LACTATE [MI], SODIUM LACTATE [JAN], NATRUM LACTICUM [HPUS], Propanoic-3-13C acid, 2-hydroxy-, monosodium salt, (2S)- (9CI), SODIUM LACTATE [VANDF], Sodium lactate, 60% in water, SODIUM LACTATE [USP-RS], SODIUM LACTATE [WHO-DD], HY-B2227B, HMS5085N21, Pharmakon1600-01300036, 2-hydroxypropionic acid sodium salt, SODIUM LACTATE, (+/-)-, Lactic acid, monosodium salt (8CI), NSC760108, SODIUM LACTATE [ORANGE BOOK], SODIUM LACTATE [USP IMPURITY], AKOS015915154, FL47138, Lacolin and DL-Lactic acid sodium salt, NSC-760108, SB44210, Sodium DL-Lactate (60% w/w in H2O), CID 23696276, DA-77925, DB-079226, DL-Lactic acid sodium salt, 60% in water, CS-0030973, E 325, NS00079058, S0928, D02183, EN300-296318, H11285, Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, sodium salt (1:1), F986857, Q418235, 2-Hydroxypropionic acid sodium salt, 60% in water, I14-6966, Propanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, monosodium salt (9CI), 2-Hydroxypropionic acid sodium salt solution;Sodium DL-lactate solution, PURASAL(R)S;PURASAL(R)S/HQ 60;PURASAL(R)S/PF 60;PURASAL(R)S/SP 60;SARCOLACTIC ACID SODIUM SALT;SODIUM-L-2-HYDROXY-PROPIONATE;SODIUM L-LACTATE;SODIUM L-LACTATE SOLUTION
Sodium lactate is an organic sodium salt having lactate as the counterion.
Sodium lactate has a role as a food preservative and a food acidity regulator.
Sodium lactate is an organic sodium salt and a lactate salt.
Sodium lactate contains a lactate.
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, and has a mild saline taste.
It is produced by fermentation of a sugar source, such as maize or beets, and then, by neutralizing the resulting lactic acid to create a compound having the formula NaC3H5O3.
Sodium lactate, in the form of Ringer's lactate solution, is used as a medication, and is included on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, a naturally occurring organic compound produced by the fermentation of sugars such as glucose or sucrose.
It has the chemical formula C₃H₅NaO₃ and typically appears as a colorless, odorless liquid or crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water.
Because of its gentle alkalinity and compatibility with biological systems, sodium lactate is used in a wide range of food, medical, and cosmetic applications.
Chemically, sodium lactate belongs to the class of alpha-hydroxy acid salts and is derived by neutralizing lactic acid with sodium hydroxide.
This reaction produces a stable compound that acts as a buffering agent, pH regulator, and humectant.
Its ability to retain moisture and regulate acidity makes it valuable in both industrial formulations and biological systems.
In the food industry, sodium lactate is used as a preservative, flavor enhancer, and humectant.
It helps control microbial growth, particularly in processed meats, seafood, and poultry, extending product shelf life.
Sodium lactate also maintains moisture and prevents dryness in packaged foods, improving texture and freshness.
As a food additive, it is designated under the code E325 by the European Union.
It functions as an acidity regulator, balancing pH levels and enhancing food stability.
Because it is derived from natural fermentation, it is considered safe and acceptable for use in vegetarian and halal products.
In pharmaceutical formulations, sodium lactate serves as a pH buffer and stabilizer in topical and injectable drugs.
Its mild alkalinity maintains the desired pH of sensitive medical preparations.
Sodium lactate is also used to adjust osmotic pressure in parenteral solutions, ensuring they are compatible with human blood.
In cosmetics and personal care, sodium lactate is a widely used humectant and moisturizer.
Sodium lactate attracts and retains water in the skin, improving hydration and elasticity.
It is often found in lotions, shampoos, facial creams, and soaps due to its mild, non-irritating properties.
In dermatological applications, it helps restore the skin’s natural moisture factor (NMF) and improves barrier function.
Sodium lactate reduces dryness, flaking, and roughness while promoting smooth and supple skin.
Its compatibility with the skin’s natural chemistry makes it ideal for sensitive or dry-skin formulations.
In industrial settings, sodium lactate is used as a corrosion inhibitor, pH adjuster, and solvent in metal treatment and chemical manufacturing.
Sodium lactate neutralizes acids and helps prevent rust formation in metal containers or pipelines.
Additionally, it acts as a biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternative to stronger alkaline chemicals.
In biotechnology and microbiology, sodium lactate is used as a carbon source in fermentation media.
Sodium lactate supports the growth of beneficial bacteria, particularly lactic acid bacteria, in probiotic production.
It is also employed in tissue culture and bioprocessing as a metabolic substrate.
In pharmaceutical compounding, sodium lactate may serve as an excipient or stabilizer in formulations that require gentle alkalinity.
Sodium lactate helps improve drug solubility and prolongs product shelf life by preventing pH drift.
Its excellent biocompatibility ensures it can be safely used in topical, oral, or parenteral forms.
In dermatology and skincare science, sodium lactate is known to outperform glycerin as a moisturizer due to its stronger water-binding capacity.
Sodium lactate provides long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
It is often used in formulations designed for anti-aging, exfoliating, or skin-repair treatments.
In hair care products, sodium lactate acts as a conditioning agent that maintains hair moisture and smoothness.
Sodium lactate helps reduce frizz, increase manageability, and enhance the natural shine of hair.
Because it balances the scalp’s pH, it is suitable for both dry and oily hair types.
In oral care formulations, it can serve as a mild buffering and moisturizing component in mouthwashes and toothpastes.
Sodium lactate helps regulate pH to prevent enamel erosion and maintain oral comfort.
Its non-toxic, biocompatible nature makes it safe for long-term daily use.
In veterinary medicine, sodium lactate is used in rehydration and electrolyte therapy for animals.
Sodium lactate assists in correcting acid-base imbalances in livestock and pets.
Its physiological compatibility ensures safe use across species.
Environmentally, sodium lactate is biodegradable and non-toxic, posing no threat to aquatic or terrestrial ecosystems.
Sodium lactate breaks down naturally into carbon dioxide and water, leaving no harmful residues.
This makes it a sustainable ingredient in eco-friendly products and formulations.
Sodium lactate is a multifunctional, biocompatible compound that bridges food science, medicine, cosmetics, and green chemistry.
Sodium lactate offers safe, effective, and sustainable solutions as a humectant, pH regulator, preservative, and rehydrating agent.
Because of its natural origin and physiological compatibility, sodium lactate remains one of the most versatile and trusted compounds in modern industry.
Sodium lactate is a versatile compound with a myriad of uses across various industries, particularly in pharmaceuticals and food processing.
Its chemical formula is NaC3H5O3, indicating that it is the sodium salt of lactic acid.
Easily soluble in water, it is available in either liquid or powder form.
In pharmaceuticals, Sodium Lactate is known under various trade names, including Lactated Ringer’s solution and Hartmann's solution.
These solutions are primarily used for intravenous (IV) therapy to treat dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Research institutions worldwide are actively exploring additional applications and benefits of Sodium Lactate, particularly in the context of treating metabolic acidosis and as a potential adjunctive treatment in various clinical settings.
Melting point: 163-165 °C(lit.)
Density: 1.33
refractive index: 1.422-1.425
storage temp.: 2-8°C
form: syrup
color: 50 APHA max.
PH: 7.48(1 mM solution);7.85(10 mM solution);8.3(100 mM solution);8.61(1000 mM solution)
Stability: Stable.
Sodium lactate is also a crucial component in clinical nutrition and critical care medicine, where it serves as a buffering and alkalinizing agent.
In intravenous therapies, it helps restore the body’s acid-base equilibrium, especially in patients suffering from metabolic acidosis due to shock, dehydration, or kidney dysfunction.
Sodium lactate acts by metabolizing into bicarbonate in the liver, which neutralizes excess acid in the bloodstream and stabilizes physiological pH.
In Ringer’s Lactate Solution—a common medical fluid—sodium lactate works synergistically with sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and calcium chloride.
Together, these electrolytes rehydrate the body, replace lost minerals, and maintain osmotic balance in patients undergoing surgery or recovering from trauma.
This makes it an essential fluid in hospitals, emergency rooms, and ambulatory care settings around the world.
In sports medicine and recovery, sodium lactate is used in oral rehydration and electrolyte formulations for athletes.
Sodium lactate helps replace salts lost through perspiration and prevents cramping, fatigue, and dehydration.
Its rapid absorption and metabolic conversion to energy also make it a preferred ingredient in endurance nutrition products.
In dermatological therapy, sodium lactate is included in lotions and creams prescribed for chronic dry skin conditions such as xerosis, psoriasis, and eczema.
It softens keratin, the main protein in the skin, and improves the shedding of dead cells, enhancing skin smoothness and tone.
When combined with urea or alpha-hydroxy acids, it provides powerful moisturizing and exfoliating effects without irritation.
In anti-aging skincare, sodium lactate helps maintain skin elasticity and firmness by supporting the natural hydration barrier.
Sodium lactate assists in collagen stability and promotes a plumper, more radiant complexion.
Because of its low irritation potential, it is favored in sensitive-skin formulations compared to stronger chemical exfoliants.
In formulation chemistry, sodium lactate functions as an excellent natural humectant and buffering agent.
Sodium lactate balances pH in formulations ranging from liquid soaps and serums to hair conditioners and deodorants.
It also improves the viscosity and flow of cosmetic emulsions, helping products maintain consistency during storage.
In soaps and cleansers, sodium lactate acts as a hardening agent and humectant.
Sodium lactate increases bar hardness in handmade and industrial soaps, allowing them to last longer and retain moisture.
At the same time, it improves lather quality and prevents soap from becoming brittle or cracking.
In hair treatment formulations, sodium lactate is used as a mild alkaline agent that helps open the hair cuticle slightly, allowing conditioners and proteins to penetrate.
Sodium lactate helps maintain scalp health by regulating pH and enhancing hydration.
This property makes it a common ingredient in smoothing, repairing, and deep-conditioning masks.
In personal hygiene products, such as deodorants and body sprays, sodium lactate helps regulate pH and improve moisture retention in the underarm area.
Sodium lactate prevents dryness and irritation often caused by alcohol-based antiperspirants.
Its natural origin also makes it compatible with clean-label and sensitive-skin deodorant lines.
In biotechnology, sodium lactate is used as a carbon source for microbial fermentation in the cultivation of beneficial bacteria.
Sodium lactate supports the growth of lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, etc.), which are used in probiotic supplements and dairy fermentation processes.
It also serves as a stabilizer in bacterial culture media, helping maintain consistent growth conditions.
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, sodium lactate is included in topical antiseptics, wound dressings, and burn gels.
Sodium lactate provides hydration to injured tissues while maintaining a mildly alkaline environment that discourages bacterial growth.
This accelerates the healing process and reduces pain associated with dry or necrotic wounds.
In veterinary and livestock medicine, sodium lactate solutions are administered to animals as rehydration therapy during illness or heat stress.
Sodium lactate replenishes electrolytes and corrects acidosis caused by diarrhea or dehydration.
Its non-toxic and physiological compatibility make it suitable for use in a variety of domestic and agricultural animals.
In industrial food processing, sodium lactate is valued for its antimicrobial properties.
It inhibits the growth of spoilage organisms such as Listeria monocytogenes and Clostridium botulinum in packaged meats and ready-to-eat foods.
This helps manufacturers extend product shelf life while maintaining freshness and safety without relying on synthetic preservatives.
In baking and confectionery, sodium lactate improves dough elasticity, retains moisture, and balances flavor.
Sodium lactate enhances yeast activity and prolongs the freshness of baked goods by preventing staling.
In confectionery, it helps maintain smooth texture in caramels, fudges, and creamy fillings.
In general, lactates such as sodium, calcium, and potassium lactate are salts derived from the neutralization of lactic acid and most commercially used lactic acids are fermented from dairy-free products such as cornstarch, potatoes, or molasses.
Sugar or tapioca additionally may be used.
In some rare instances, some lactic acid is fermented from dairy products such as whey and lactose.
Whey is made of up 6.5% solids of which 4.8% is solid lactose.
Waste whey is infrequently used to produce lactic acid when the whey itself is produced as waste during the manufacture of certain dairy products.
Such dairy-type lactic acid generally goes back into dairy products, such as ice cream and cream cheese, rather than into non-dairy products.
Moreover, although the lactic-acid starter culture to ferment corn or beets may contain milk, Sodium lactate does not contain milk protein and need not be restricted by someone avoiding milk or those with a milk allergy.
A normal intermediate in the fermentation (oxidation, metabolism) of sugar.
The concentrated form is used internally to prevent gastrointestinal fermentation.
Sodium lactate is the sodium salt of lactic acid, and has a mild saline taste.
Sodium lactate is produced by fermentation of a sugar source, such as corn or beets, and then, by neutralizing the resulting lactic acid to create a compound having the formula NaC3H5O3.
Sodium Lactate is a common ingredient used in cosmetics and personal care products.
It is the sodium salt of lactic acid, a natural acid derived from the fermentation of sugars.
Sodium Lactate is typically a clear, colorless liquid with a mild odor and serves multiple functions in skincare products.
It acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, promoting hydration and preventing dryness.
Additionally, Sodium Lactate can function as a pH regulator, helping to stabilize and adjust the pH of formulations.
The chemical formula of Sodium Lactate is NaC3H5O3.
Sodium lactate functions as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin.
Sodium lactate helps to hydrate and improve the skin's moisture balance, making it beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin types.
Additionally, Sodium Lactate can contribute to the overall texture and feel of skincare formulations, providing a smoother and more luxurious application
Sodium lactate is commonly used as a pH regulator.
Sodium lactate helps to stabilize and adjust the pH of formulations, ensuring they remain within the desired range for optimal effectiveness and compatibility with the skin.
By maintaining the appropriate pH, Sodium Lactate supports the stability and efficacy of cosmetic products
It can act as a conditioning agent, enhancing the softness and manageability of the hair.
Sodium lactate can help to reduce frizz, improve combability, and promote a smoother appearance.
Sodium Lactate's moisturizing properties aid in maintaining healthy and hydrated hair strands
Sodium Lactate is manufactured by neutralizing lactic acid with sodium hydroxide.
This process involves combining lactic acid, obtained through fermentation or chemical methods, with sodium hydroxide to create Sodium Lactate.
The resulting sodium salt is then purified for use in cosmetics and personal care products.
Uses:
Sodium Lactate is a humectant that is the sodium salt of lactic acid which is low melting and hygroscopic with a mildly saline taste.
Sodium lactate is used in sponge cake and swiss roll to produce a tender crumb and to reduce staling.
Sodium lactate provides a protein plasticizing effect in bis- cuits.
Sodium lactate is used in frankfurter-type sausages as a replacement for sodium chloride to extend shelf life and as a dehydrating salt or humectant in uncured hams.
Sodium lactate can function as a flavoring agent and enhancer in some meat and poultry products.
Sodium lactate is widely used in the medical field, especially as a buffering and alkalinizing agent in intravenous solutions.
It helps correct metabolic acidosis by being metabolized into bicarbonate, which neutralizes excess acid in the blood.
This function makes it essential in treating dehydration, shock, and electrolyte imbalance in clinical and emergency medicine.
In Ringer’s Lactate Solution, sodium lactate is one of the main components used for rehydration and restoring electrolyte balance.
It is combined with sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and calcium chloride to create a physiologically balanced fluid.
This solution is commonly used during surgeries, trauma care, and severe burn treatments to maintain plasma volume and prevent hypovolemia.
In sports medicine, sodium lactate is used in oral rehydration and electrolyte formulations designed for athletes.
It replenishes sodium lost through sweat and prevents dehydration, muscle cramps, and fatigue.
Its rapid metabolic conversion also provides a mild source of energy, making it useful for endurance and recovery drinks.
In dermatology, sodium lactate is included in lotions, creams, and therapeutic moisturizers for dry or flaky skin conditions.
It helps hydrate and soften the skin by drawing moisture into the outer layers, improving texture and elasticity.
It is particularly effective in treating eczema, psoriasis, xerosis, and age-related dryness.
In anti-aging and skin-repair formulations, sodium lactate supports collagen stability and hydration retention.
It improves the skin’s resilience and reduces fine lines by maintaining its natural moisture barrier.
Because of its gentle nature, it is suitable for sensitive or mature skin without causing irritation.
In cosmetic and personal care products, sodium lactate functions as a humectant, pH regulator, and emulsifier.
It enhances the moisture content of shampoos, conditioners, and soaps, preventing dryness and brittleness.
It also balances acidity levels in skincare formulations, making them more compatible with the skin’s natural pH.
In soap manufacturing, sodium lactate is used as a hardening agent and humectant.
It increases bar firmness, improves lather, and prevents soap from becoming too soft or sticky.
It also enhances transparency and longevity, making it a key additive in both handmade and commercial soap production.
In hair care formulations, sodium lactate acts as a conditioning and pH-balancing agent.
It helps keep hair hydrated, smooth, and manageable while reducing static and frizz.
It is often used in deep-conditioning treatments, masks, and shampoos formulated for damaged or dry hair.
In personal hygiene and deodorant products, sodium lactate maintains the skin’s natural moisture while balancing pH.
It reduces irritation and dryness commonly caused by alcohol-based antiperspirants.
Its natural origin and mildness make it suitable for clean-label and sensitive-skin deodorant formulations.
In biotechnology, sodium lactate serves as a carbon source in microbial fermentation processes.
It supports the growth of beneficial microorganisms such as Lactobacillus used in probiotic production and dairy fermentation.
It also acts as a pH buffer in bacterial culture media, ensuring consistent microbial growth.
In pharmaceutical production, sodium lactate is used as an excipient, stabilizer, and isotonic agent in various formulations.
It helps maintain the correct pH and osmolarity in injectable and topical medications.
It also improves solubility and stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients, ensuring better therapeutic performance.
In wound care and burn therapy, sodium lactate is used in hydrating gels and dressings.
It creates a moist healing environment, accelerates tissue regeneration, and reduces scarring.
Because it has mild antibacterial effects, it also helps prevent infections in open wounds.
In veterinary medicine, sodium lactate is administered as part of rehydration and electrolyte therapy for animals.
It treats acidosis and dehydration in livestock and pets, especially during heat stress or gastrointestinal illness.
Its physiological compatibility makes it safe and effective for use in multiple species.
In the food industry, sodium lactate is a multifunctional preservative, flavor enhancer, and humectant.
It extends the shelf life of meat, poultry, and seafood by inhibiting bacterial growth such as Listeria monocytogenes.
It also improves texture and juiciness in processed foods by retaining moisture and preventing oxidation.
As a food additive (E325), sodium lactate serves as an acidity regulator and stabilizer.
It maintains the correct pH in beverages, sauces, and bakery products to prevent spoilage and flavor changes.
Its natural origin and GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status make it widely accepted in global food processing.
In baking and confectionery, sodium lactate helps improve dough elasticity and moisture retention.
It enhances yeast activity, strengthens gluten structure, and prevents staling in bread and pastries.
In candies and caramels, it ensures smoothness and prevents crystallization.
In beverage production, sodium lactate is used in sports drinks and isotonic beverages as a source of electrolytes.
It balances sweetness with a mild saline note and stabilizes the drink’s pH.
This ensures both flavor consistency and nutritional benefit in energy and hydration drinks.
In industrial and chemical applications, sodium lactate serves as a biodegradable corrosion inhibitor and pH adjuster.
It is used in cooling systems, metal cleaning, and surface treatment to prevent oxidation and rust.
Its non-toxic and biodegradable nature makes it an environmentally safe alternative to synthetic chemicals.
In environmental biotechnology, sodium lactate acts as an electron donor in groundwater remediation.
It stimulates microbial activity that breaks down chlorinated solvents and heavy metals into harmless compounds.
This makes it a preferred agent in sustainable soil and groundwater cleanup projects.
In pharmaceutical synthesis, sodium lactate is used as a chemical intermediate for producing lactate-based esters and salts.
These derivatives are employed in controlled-release drug formulations and solvent systems.
Its high purity and non-toxicity make it suitable for pharmaceutical-grade applications.
In food preservation technology, sodium lactate is combined with potassium lactate or diacetate to enhance antimicrobial efficacy.
This combination prevents spoilage and extends the shelf life of ready-to-eat meats and dairy products.
It allows food manufacturers to reduce reliance on synthetic preservatives while maintaining food safety.
In chemical engineering, sodium lactate is used as a green solvent and biodegradable stabilizer in polymer and resin formulations.
It improves process control and reduces the environmental footprint of industrial operations.
It also assists in metal passivation, preventing corrosion in heat exchangers and pipelines.
In cosmetic formulation laboratories, sodium lactate serves as a formulation aid and consistency enhancer.
It stabilizes emulsions, improves spreadability, and increases product viscosity without adding heaviness.
It is particularly valuable in lightweight moisturizers and serums designed for humid climates.
In environmental sustainability, sodium lactate is promoted as an eco-friendly ingredient for green product design.
It is derived from renewable sources like sugar fermentation and fully biodegradable.
This has made it a cornerstone in the movement toward natural, sustainable consumer and industrial products.
Overall, sodium lactate’s uses extend across medicine, food, cosmetics, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science.
It acts as a humectant, pH regulator, preservative, buffering agent, and electrolyte source.
Because of its safety, versatility, and biodegradability, it continues to be one of the most valuable and sustainable compounds in modern industry.
Sodium lactate keeps a product’s pH from becoming too acidic.
It is moisturizing and moisture binding, as well as being a keratolytic, helping exfoliate excess cells from the surface of the stratum corneum.
It is also used as a substitute for glycerin. Sodium lactate is naturally occurring in the skin.
As a food additive, sodium lactate has the E number E325 and is naturally a liquid product, but also is available in powder form.
Sodium lactate acts as a preservative, acidity regulator, and bulking agent.
Despite the similarity in name, sodium lactate itself is not chemically similar to lactose (milk sugar), so need not be restricted by those with lactose intolerance.
Sodium lactate is sometimes used in shampoo products and other similar items such as liquid soaps, as it is an effective humectant and moisturizer.
Sodium lactate is used to treat arrhythmias caused by overdosing of class I antiarrythmics, as well as pressor sympathomimetics which can cause hypertension.
It can be given intravenously as a source of bicarbonate for preventing or controlling mild to moderate metabolic acidosis in patients with restricted oral intake (for sodium bicarbonate) whose oxidative processes are not seriously impaired.
However, the use in lactic acidosis is contraindicated.
Sodium lactate may induce panic attacks in persons with existing panic disorder; up to 72% of individuals with panic disorder experience a panic attack when administered sodium lactate intravenously.
Sodium lactate may therefore also be used to confirm a diagnosis of panic disorder.
In 2022, it was the 287th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than 500,000 prescriptions.
Safety Profile:
Sodium lactate is a mildly alkaline substance, especially in concentrated or anhydrous form, with a pH typically ranging between 6 and 9.
While this alkalinity is low compared to strong bases, it can still irritate skin or mucous membranes upon prolonged contact.
It does not readily ignite or explode but can decompose at high temperatures, producing carbon oxides (CO, CO₂) and sodium oxides that may irritate the respiratory tract.
Sodium lactate is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air.
This property can cause it to become slippery or form concentrated liquid films that may corrode some metals over long exposure.
When stored in metal containers, it can slowly react with aluminum or zinc, releasing small amounts of hydrogen gas in humid conditions.
Sodium lactate is chemically stable under normal conditions, but it should be kept away from strong acids and oxidizing agents.
Contact with strong acids can release lactic acid vapors that are irritating to eyes and throat.
Similarly, contact with reactive oxidizers (e.g., peroxides, nitrates) can produce exothermic reactions and possible decomposition.
Skin contact with concentrated sodium lactate solutions can cause mild irritation or dryness.
Because it draws moisture from tissues, it may lead to transient redness, itching, or slight burning sensations.
However, at typical cosmetic or medical concentrations (less than 10%), it is considered non-irritating and safe for human skin.
Eye contact poses a greater risk because sodium lactate is hygroscopic and alkaline.
Sodium lactate can cause stinging, tearing, and temporary redness if splashed into the eyes.
If exposure is not promptly rinsed with clean water, it may lead to mild conjunctival inflammation or irritation.
