Fluid management: the pharmacoeconomic dimension

Cost is a key concern in fluid management. Relatively few data are availabl e that address the comparative total costs of care between different fluid management regimens in particular clinical indications. Relevant costs of f luid-associated morbidity and mortality, including those incurred after int ensive care unit or hospital discharge, also need to be considered in evalu ating the cost-benefit ratios of administered fluids. Rigorously designed p harmacoeconomic studies are needed to delineate the costs and benefits of v arious approaches to fluid management.