Dialysis solution comes in 1.5-, 2-, 2.5-, or 3-liter bags. Solutions contain a sugar called dextrose or a compound called icodextrin and minerals to pull the wastes and extra fluid from your blood into your abdominal cavity-the space in the body that holds organs such as the stomach, intestines, and liver. Different solutions have different concentrations of dextrose or icodextrin. Your doctor will prescribe a formula that fits your needs.

You will need a clean space to store your bags of solution and other supplies. You will also need to warm each bag of solution to body temperature before use. You can use an electric blanket or let the bag sit in a tub of warm water. Most solution bags come in a protective outer wrapper, and you can warm them in a microwave. Do not microwave a bag of solution after you have removed it from its wrapper.