St Mark’s formula electrolyte solution
This leaflet provides information for patients who have been advised by the hospital to use St Mark’s formula electrolyte solution. Instructions for making the solution and how to get the ingredients needed are also included.
About St Mark’s formula electrolyte solution
The solution is a drink that is used to replace fluid and electrolytes lost through high output stomas or enterocutaneous fistulas. Electrolytes are natural substances found in the body which need to be kept in balance to maintain good health. They include sodium, chloride and bicarbonate.
St Mark’s solution is easily absorbed in the bowel to improve your hydration and is often given to patients whose bowel cannot absorb other fluids well. Your doctor will advise you how much normal fluid you can drink in addition to your St Mark’s solution. It is important to keep to this advice.
Making up St Mark’s formula electrolyte solution
Use a double-ended medicine spoon to measure the amounts into a measuring jug. Make up a fresh solution every day with:
- Sodium bicarbonate powder 2.5g (1 heaped 2.5ml spoonful)
- Glucose powder 20g (6 times level 5ml spoonfuls)
- Table salt (Sodium Chloride powder) 3.5g (1 level 5ml spoonful)
- Make up to a total volume of 1 litre using fresh tap water
- Stir well until all the powder is dissolved
- Add squash for flavouring if wanted.
The taste of the solution may be salty and can be improved by keeping it chilled or by adding a small amount of fruit squash (lemon or lime flavouring is most effective).
Any flavouring used must be added before making up to a total volume of 1 litre.
The solution should be sipped throughout the day to meet the prescribed amount. If you are unable to manage the full amount of the solution, then please contact the person who prescribed it for advice. The solution can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge. Any unused solution should be discarded after 24 hours.
Obtaining Ingredients
- You can buy the ingredients from your local pharmacy or supermarket.
- Sodium bicarbonate powder is the same as bicarbonate of soda or baking soda.
- Ensure that you use table salt and not any of the other varieties of salt that have larger crystals.
- Your GP might be able to prescribe the glucose powder if you struggle to buy this.
Contact information
Stoma Care Team, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
Tel: 0300 422 6702
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm
Stoma Care Team, Cheltenham General Hospital
Tel: 0300 422 4363
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm
If your call is not answered on the above numbers, please leave your name, contact details and a brief message. Your query will be dealt with the next working day or at the first opportunity.