Book Now

Crystalloid vs Colloid

April 12, 2024
by Brandon Lang

Regular intake of fluids and nutrients is important to maintain homeostasis in the body and establish balance. With the occurrence of injuries or diseases, this homeostasis can be disturbed, reducing the function of organs and metabolic processes. As a solution to this problem, many health professionals opt for crystalloids or colloids. So, what is the difference between crystalloid vs colloid?

In this article we will look at the main differences between these two solutions and their use for establishing normal bodily homeostasis. 

Source: shutterstock.com / Photo Contributor: New Africa

Crystalloid vs Colloid

Fluids for infusion can be divided into two categories – colloids and crystalloids. Crystalloids are plasma volume expanders containing electrolytes such as potassium and sodium. Such crystals are able to dissolve in a solution and enable such a solution to move across membranes. Crystalloids are usually used to increase the intravascular volume when it is reduced.

Colloids, on the other hand, are gelatinous solutions that act as plasma volume expanders. Unlike crystalloids, the particles of colloids are too large to pass through semi-permeable membranes such as capillary membranes. Therefore, colloids remain in the intravascular space longer than crystalloids. An example of colloids are dextran, hydroxyethyl starch, albumin, and Haemaccel.

It’s worth noting that both solutions are administered in the IV hydration Arizona.

Crystalloid solutions

Medical professionals widely use crystalloids to maintain homeostasis and replace lost electrolytes. Such solutions are composed of water and electrolytes, which makes them suitable for improving the electrolyte and fluid imbalance in the body. The most common crystalloids used for IV hydration are:

Sodium chloride

Normal saline solution (0.9% sodium chloride), or physiological saline solution, is the most common crystalloid used in clinical practice. Due to its composition, it has a similar tonicity to the extracellular fluid.

Normal saline is commonly used for drug administration, fluid resuscitation, and intravascular volume expansion.

Ringer’s lactate solution

Ringer’s lactate (RL) solution is a mixture of sodium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, and sodium lactate in water. This mixture is usually administered in case of surgery, dehydration, or receiving medications through IV. In addition, this solution can be used in mild metabolic acidosis because it has the ability to metabolize lactate in the liver.

Hartmann’s solution 

Hartmann’s solution (Compound Sodium Lactate) is similar to lactated Ringer’s solution except that it contains sodium bicarbonate in its composition. In addition, this solution is isotonic and provides electrolytes that have concentrations similar to the extracellular fluid.

When it comes to use, Hartmann’s solution is used for fluid resuscitation, especially in cases of hypovolemia and dehydration, as well as perioperative fluid management.

Hypertonic saline

Unlike normal saline, which may contain 3% or 5% sodium chloride, hypertonic solutions contain a higher concentration of sodium chloride. Regarding its use, such solutions have specific uses in cases such as hyponatremia, hypovolemic shock, and treating cerebral edema.

In addition, hypertonic solutions are characterized by an osmotic effect. With this property, these solutions draw water from the interstitial and intracellular compartments into the intravascular space, thus increasing the intravascular volume by improving perfusion.

Colloid solutions

Colloid solutions are used to replace lost fluids to increase intravascular volume by increasing oncotic pressure in the bloodstream.

Unlike crystalloids, colloids contain larger molecules suspended in a liquid base, allowing fluid to be retained in blood vessels. In the following, we will look at some of the colloidal solutions that are most often used in medical practice:

Albumin solutions

Albumin solutions are one of the most used colloidal solutions in clinical practice. Namely, albumin is a natural protein found in plasma that increases intravascular oncotic pressure. 

Such solutions are usually available in various concentrations, such as 5% and 25%. They are used in patients with hypoalbuminemia, hypovolemia and in those conditions where expansion of the plasma volume is required.

Hydroxyethyl starch

Hydroxyethyl starch is a synthetic starch commonly used for fluid resuscitation to replace intravascular pressure. This colloidal solution has different molecular weights and concentrations, affecting pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties.

When it comes to its use, hydroxyethyl starch is most commonly used for hypovolemic shock and critically ill patients.

Gelatin solution

Gelatin-based colloidal solutions are composed of hydrolyzed gelatin derived from animal sources. Such solutions are used for volume replacement in those situations requiring rapid intravascular expansion, usually in surgery or trauma. 

Although such solutions are well tolerated, caution should be exercised in their application in persons with a history of sensitivity to gelatin.

Differences Between Crystalloid and Colloid Solutions

When choosing a solution to replenish lost fluids, one should know what distinguishes crystalloids and colloids. So, what is the difference between a colloid and a crystalloid?


  1. Molecular size and properties – Crystalloids comprise small molecules such as ions and small solutes, while colloids consist of larger molecules suspended in solution.

  2. Volume expansion capabilities – Crystalloid solutions can effectively expand intravascular volume, and their effect is short-lived. On the other hand, colloids expand the volume by increasing the intravascular volume and have a longer effect.

  3. Duration of intravascular retention – Crystalloids have a relatively short duration of intravascular retention in contrast to colloids, which in turn have prolonged retention due to the size of the molecules.

  4. Hemodynamic effects – Crystalloids expand plasma volume by replenishing fluid deficits. On the other hand, colloids increase intravascular volume by increasing oncotic pressure.

  5. Potential adverse effects and complications – When it comes to adverse effects, crystalloids are generally safe to use. But when crystalloids are administered in large volumes, it may lead to electrolyte imbalance, tissue edema or dilutional coagulopathy. On the other hand, the negative effects of colloid solutions may include allergic reactions, tissue edema, and coagulopathy.

Ready for Better Hydration with IV Therapy ?

Professional hydration therapy ensures that the right fluids are administered safely and effectively. For individuals seeking convenient, on-demand care, mobile IV therapy brings hydration and recovery directly to their location in Gilbert.

Can You Get Mobile IV Therapy in Gilbert for Hydration and Recovery?

Yes, you can get mobile IV therapy in Gilbert for hydration and recovery, making treatment convenient and personalized. Mobile IV therapy in Gilbert delivers fluids directly to your home, workplace, or event, helping restore balance with the right mix of crystalloid and colloid solutions when needed. Whether you need rapid hydration, recovery after illness, or support for conditions like dehydration and fatigue, our licensed professionals ensure safe and effective care. Learn more about [Mobile IV Therapy in Gilbert] to see how it can support your wellness and recovery.

Is Understanding Crystalloids vs Colloids Essential for IV Therapy?

Yes, understanding crystalloids vs colloids is essential for IV therapy because it helps patients and providers choose the most effective treatment. By knowing the differences in fluid retention, electrolyte balance, and plasma volume expansion, you can better appreciate how IV therapy supports hydration and recovery. When comparing these two solutions, remember there is no one-size-fits-all solution for all patients. Both solutions come with their advantages, and the choice depends on several factors, such as the patient’s health condition, clinical scenario, and available resources.

However, when administering such solutions, healthcare professionals should consider the patient’s individual needs as well as the potential risks that may arise during their administration.

Brandon Lang, MSN, RN

Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer

Brandon Lang started his healthcare career working on an ambulance as an EMT at just 19 years old in Los Angeles, CA. He transitioned into a new-grad program in the ICU and then into the ER, ultimately working over 14 years in the ER. Toward the end of his ER tenure, Brandon also worked as a critical care transport (CCT) RN in Southern CA for approximately 2 years while pursuing his dream of becoming a flight nurse and working on a helicopter. He became a flight nurse in 2001 and served communities in AZ and CA in the air medical industry for over 17 years.

Brandon’s “why” in all of this is his relationship with Christ as the foundation in all he does, his amazing wife of over 23 years and their six children. Brandon knows that helping build both Haggai Healthcare and The Drip IV Infusion would not be possible without an amazing group of professionals around him. He is incredibly grateful for a team whose values align believing that if they take great care of their team, the team in turn will take amazing care of the patients and clients to which they have the honor of providing health services.

The Essential Vitamins in IV Therapy and Why Queen Creek Residents Love Them

If you’re considering IV vitamin therapy in Queen Creek, you’re likely seeking rapid hydration, nutrient replenishment, or relief from the effects of our desert climate. We understand that navigating the world of intravenous vitamins can feel overwhelming, but you’re in the right place to learn everything you need to make ...
Read
queen creek canyon

How Queen Creek’s Dry Climate Affects Your Hydration Levels

If you’re experiencing unexplained fatigue, persistent headaches, or dry skin despite drinking water regularly, you’re likely dealing with the hidden effects of Queen Creek’s desert climate on your body’s hydration levels. Living in the Sonoran Desert means your body faces unique challenges that many residents underestimate, but understanding these factors ...
Read

Could You Be Low on B12? Symptoms Common in Arizona Adults

If you’re experiencing unexplained fatigue, tingling sensations, or memory issues while living in Arizona, you may be among the many adults dealing with an often-overlooked nutritional deficiency. We understand these symptoms can be concerning and confusing, especially when they seem to appear without clear cause. You’re in the right place ...
Read