DEXTROSE 10% Infusion/Solution for

What is DEXTROSE 10%

DEXTROSE 10% is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous solution containing 10 grams of dextrose (glucose) per 100 ml of water. It is provided in a 500 ml plastic infusion bottle for intravenous administration. The solution is isotonic to slightly hypertonic and is used primarily as a source of carbohydrates and fluid for hydration and energy replacement in patients unable to intake adequate calories orally or enterally.

• Generic name: Dextrose
• Concentration: 10% w/v
• Form: Solution for infusion
• Uses: Nutritional support, management of hypoglycemia, and prevention of ketosis
• Packaging: 500 ml plastic bottle

It is widely used in hospital and clinical settings to maintain fluid balance and provide a rapid source of energy, especially in patients under metabolic stress or post-operative recovery.

How to use DEXTROSE 10%

DEXTROSE 10% is administered via intravenous infusion under strict medical supervision. The rate and volume of administration depend on the patient's clinical condition, age, weight, and metabolic needs.

• Administer using a sterile IV set with aseptic technique.
• Inspect the solution before use; discard if cloudy, leaking, or if particulate matter is visible.
• Do not administer with blood products due to risk of clumping or hemolysis.
• Use a controlled infusion pump for accurate dosing.
• Monitor blood glucose and electrolyte levels during administration.

DEXTROSE 10% can be used as a maintenance fluid or in cases of mild to moderate hypoglycemia. Always ensure that the infusion is compatible with other medications if administered concurrently through the same IV line.

Mode of Action DEXTROSE 10%

DEXTROSE 10% is administered via intravenous infusion under strict medical supervision. The rate and volume of administration depend on the patient's clinical condition, age, weight, and metabolic needs.

• Administer using a sterile IV set with aseptic technique.
• Inspect the solution before use; discard if cloudy, leaking, or if particulate matter is visible.
• Do not administer with blood products due to risk of clumping or hemolysis.
• Use a controlled infusion pump for accurate dosing.
• Monitor blood glucose and electrolyte levels during administration.

DEXTROSE 10% can be used as a maintenance fluid or in cases of mild to moderate hypoglycemia. Always ensure that the infusion is compatible with other medications if administered concurrently through the same IV line.

DEXTROSE 10% Interactions DEXTROSE 10%

While dextrose is generally safe, interactions may occur when used with other drugs or in certain metabolic conditions:

• Insulin and antidiabetics: Concomitant use can alter glucose metabolism and increase risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
• Corticosteroids and thiazides: May increase blood glucose levels and oppose the effect of insulin.
• Electrolyte solutions: Co-administration requires caution to avoid fluid or electrolyte imbalance.
• Blood products: Should not be administered with DEXTROSE 10% due to risk of red cell aggregation or hemolysis.

Regular monitoring of glucose levels and careful compatibility checks are essential when administering DEXTROSE 10% with other medications.

Dosage of DEXTROSE 10%

The dosage must be individualized based on the patient’s age, weight, clinical status, and fluid/electrolyte needs.

• Adults: 500–1000 ml/day as needed, infused slowly over several hours.
• Children: 10–20 ml/kg/day, adjusted according to caloric and fluid requirements.
• Neonates: 5–10 ml/kg/hr cautiously, with close monitoring of blood sugar levels.
• Use in TPN: Calculated based on total caloric intake (typically 3.4 kcal per gram of dextrose).

Infusion should not exceed the body’s glucose oxidation capacity (around 5 mg/kg/min in adults) to prevent hyperglycemia or osmotic diuresis.

Possible side effects of DEXTROSE 10%

DEXTROSE 10% is generally well tolerated, but side effects may occur, particularly with excessive or prolonged use.

• Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels, especially in diabetic patients.
• Osmotic diuresis: Excessive glucose can cause increased urine output and electrolyte loss.
• Fluid overload: May result in pulmonary edema, especially in cardiac or renal compromise.
• Hypokalemia: Can occur due to insulin-driven cellular potassium shift.
• Phlebitis: Irritation or inflammation at the IV site.

Severe reactions are rare but require immediate discontinuation and medical intervention. Routine monitoring can prevent most complications.

DEXTROSE 10% Contraindications DEXTROSE 10%

The use of DEXTROSE 10% is contraindicated in several medical conditions:

• Severe hyperglycemia or uncorrected diabetic ketoacidosis
• Intracranial or intraspinal hemorrhage due to risk of fluid shift and cerebral edema
• Anuria or severe renal failure not managed with dialysis
• Hypokalemia unless potassium is supplemented
• Delirium tremens with dehydration without proper electrolyte correction

Use with caution in patients with heart failure, pulmonary edema, or conditions that predispose to fluid overload.

Storage of DEXTROSE 10%

Proper storage is essential to maintain the sterility and efficacy of DEXTROSE 10% infusion:

• Store at controlled room temperature, ideally between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
• Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
• Do not freeze the solution, as this may lead to crystallization or container damage.
• Inspect the bottle for leaks, discoloration, or particulate matter before use.
• Once opened, the product should be used immediately to maintain sterility.

Follow hospital or clinic protocols for storage and disposal of IV fluids.