Acetate requirements

Physiology:

Acetate is a precursor to bicarbonate in the body and is useful in correcting deficits caused by diarrhea or urinary bicarbonate losses.  Increase acetate intake to treat metabolic acidosis, decrease intake to treat metabolic alkalosis.

Empiric daily requirement

Adults:  As needed to balance acid/base (20 to 100 mEq/day)

Infants/children:  As needed to balance acid/base (2 to 4 mEq/kg/day)