DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. Infusion/Solution for

What is DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. is an intravenous (IV) infusion solution containing 10% dextrose (a form of glucose) in water, typically used for fluid and calorie replenishment. It provides a readily available source of energy for patients unable to consume sufficient nutrients orally or through enteral feeding. It also aids in the management of dehydration and supports metabolic processes during illness or post-surgery recovery.

• Generic Name: Dextrose 10%
• Form: Infusion Solution
• Size: 500ml Plastic Bottle
• Primary Uses:
  • Treatment of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
  • Source of calories in parenteral nutrition
  • Rehydration therapy in cases of fluid loss or dehydration

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. is widely used in hospitals, particularly in emergency and critical care settings where rapid glucose administration is needed.

How to use DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. must be administered with caution and under medical supervision to ensure safe and effective therapy:

• Route of Administration: Intravenous infusion (IV) only. It must not be administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously.
• Preparation: Inspect the solution before use; it must be clear and free of particles. Do not use if the solution is discolored or the container is damaged.
• Infusion Rate: Should be adjusted based on individual patient needs and clinical conditions such as blood glucose levels, hydration status, and caloric requirements.
• Monitoring: Blood glucose, electrolytes, and fluid balance must be closely monitored during therapy to avoid hyperglycemia, electrolyte imbalances, or fluid overload.
• Compatibility: It can be mixed with certain medications under supervision, but always verify compatibility before adding any drugs.

Always use sterile technique when administering the infusion and dispose of any unused portion according to hospital protocols.

Mode of Action DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. acts primarily as a carbohydrate source, providing metabolic energy and supporting vital cellular processes:

• Energy Source: Dextrose is metabolized in the body to release energy, which is critical for cell survival, especially under conditions of stress, infection, or trauma.
• Osmotic Effect: The hypertonic nature of the 10% solution can help draw water from the intracellular and interstitial spaces into the intravascular compartment, thereby assisting in plasma volume expansion to some extent.
• Metabolic Functions: Glucose is essential for normal brain function and is a primary energy substrate for cells during anaerobic metabolism.

Thus, DEXTROSE 10% not only rehydrates but also stabilizes blood glucose levels and supports vital organ function during critical illness.

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. Interactions DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

While DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. is generally safe, it may interact with other medications or affect certain medical conditions:

• Medications Added to Dextrose Solution: Always ensure drug compatibility before mixing medications into the infusion to avoid precipitation or degradation.
• Diuretics: May enhance the risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalances when co-administered.
• Corticosteroids: Can cause sodium and fluid retention, counteracting the effects of the dextrose solution.
• Insulin: Patients on insulin therapy may require dose adjustments due to the glucose load from Dextrose 10%.
• Potassium-Sparing Agents: Electrolyte disturbances may be exacerbated if not monitored closely.

Clinical judgment should always guide the co-administration of other medications with DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P., and regular laboratory tests should be conducted during therapy.

Dosage of DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

Dosage of DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. must be individualized based on the patient’s clinical needs:

• Adults:
  • The infusion rate should not exceed the patient's maximum glucose oxidation rate (typically about 5–7 mg/kg/min).
  • In emergency treatment of hypoglycemia, a rapid bolus of dextrose 10% may be followed by a continuous infusion to maintain normal blood glucose levels.
• Children and Infants:
  • Infusion rates must be carefully calculated based on body weight and metabolic needs to prevent complications such as hyperglycemia and fluid overload.

It is critical to avoid rapid infusion, especially in neonates and small children, to prevent hyperosmolar syndromes and electrolyte imbalances.

Possible side effects of DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

Like all medical treatments, DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. can cause adverse reactions in some patients:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
  • Polyuria (excessive urination)
  • Local reactions at infusion site (pain, redness, swelling)
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Hyperosmolar syndrome (confusion, dehydration, lethargy)
  • Fluid overload and pulmonary edema
  • Electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hyponatremia, hypokalemia)
• Rare Side Effects:
  • Anaphylactic reactions (very rare)

Prompt recognition and management of these side effects are essential to prevent complications during therapy.

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. Contraindications DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P. should not be used in certain clinical situations:

• Hyperglycemia: Pre-existing uncontrolled diabetes mellitus without adequate insulin coverage.
• Severe Dehydration Without Electrolyte Replacement: May worsen electrolyte imbalance.
• Hypokalemia: Dextrose can exacerbate low potassium levels without potassium supplementation.
• Cerebral Edema: Hyperosmolar solutions can worsen cerebral edema in patients with head trauma.
• Known Allergy: Rare but possible allergy to dextrose preparations.

Contraindications must be strictly adhered to in clinical practice to ensure patient safety.

Storage of DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.

Proper storage ensures the efficacy and sterility of DEXTROSE 10% w/v B.P.:

• Temperature: Store between 20°C and 25°C (68°F–77°F).
• Protection: Keep away from excessive heat and freezing conditions.
• Inspection: Do not use if the solution is discolored, cloudy, or contains particulate matter.
• Packaging: Keep in original plastic containers and do not remove from outer packaging until ready to use to protect from light contamination.
• Disposal: Discard any unused solution after opening, following appropriate medical waste guidelines.

Maintaining proper storage standards is crucial to prevent contamination and ensure patient safety.