DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. Infusion/Solution for

What is DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous solution containing 20% dextrose (a form of glucose) in water. It is primarily used for the treatment of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) and as a high-calorie nutritional supplement in patients unable to meet their caloric needs orally or enterally. Dextrose acts as an immediate source of energy and plays a vital role in maintaining glucose balance, particularly during acute illnesses, surgeries, or fasting states.

• Generic Name: Dextrose 20% w/v
• Form: Infusion Solution for IV use
• Size: 500ml Plastic Bottle
• Main Uses:
  • Treatment of moderate hypoglycemia
  • Parenteral nutrition support
  • Fluid and caloric supplementation during illness

DEXTROSE 20% is an important agent in critical care, emergency medicine, and postoperative recovery to support metabolic demands and prevent complications arising from hypoglycemia or energy deficits.

How to use DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. should be administered with precision and care under medical supervision:

• Route of Administration: Strictly for intravenous (IV) infusion, either through a peripheral or central vein depending on volume and patient condition.
• Infusion Technique:
  • Use aseptic technique when connecting the infusion set.
  • Inspect the solution for clarity and particulate matter before use.
• Infusion Rate: Should be controlled carefully to prevent osmotic diuresis, hyperglycemia, or fluid overload.
• Monitoring: Blood glucose, fluid status, and electrolytes (particularly potassium) must be closely monitored during administration.
• Compatibility: Confirm compatibility before mixing with other medications or infusions.

Rapid infusion can cause significant metabolic disturbances; therefore, a slow, controlled infusion is recommended unless used in an acute hypoglycemic emergency where a faster correction is needed.

Mode of Action DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. acts primarily as an immediate and efficient energy source for the body:

• Carbohydrate Source: Dextrose is readily metabolized by cells to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of the body.
• Glucose Restoration: In hypoglycemia, administration of dextrose rapidly elevates blood glucose levels, supplying the brain and muscles with essential energy.
• Osmotic Effect: A hypertonic solution like 20% dextrose can draw fluids from interstitial to vascular compartments, temporarily supporting blood volume expansion.
• Cellular Function Support: Adequate glucose is critical for maintaining cardiac, neurologic, and skeletal muscle function during physiological stress.

Thus, DEXTROSE 20% not only serves as a metabolic fuel but also helps in stabilizing physiological homeostasis during stress or illness.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. Interactions DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. can interact with various drugs and clinical conditions:

• Insulin: Insulin administration may require dose adjustments as glucose levels rise.
• Electrolyte Solutions: When combined with solutions like potassium chloride, close monitoring is required to prevent electrolyte imbalance.
• Diuretics: May cause or exacerbate shifts in electrolyte levels, necessitating careful monitoring of sodium and potassium.
• Corticosteroids: These drugs can promote hyperglycemia, necessitating careful glycemic control when dextrose is administered.
• Incompatibility: Avoid mixing dextrose solutions with blood products or incompatible drugs without prior compatibility checks, as it may cause hemolysis or precipitation.

Co-administration decisions must be based on clinical judgment and laboratory monitoring to prevent serious drug interactions and patient harm.

Dosage of DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

The dosage of DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. varies depending on the patient's age, condition, and clinical needs:

• Adults:
  • Administered intravenously at rates determined by the severity of hypoglycemia and fluid status.
  • Typical rates are individualized but must avoid exceeding the glucose utilization rate (~5–7 mg/kg/min).
• Children and Infants:
  • Require strict dosing adjustments based on body weight and age.
  • Infusion rates should be slow to prevent hyperglycemia and osmotic diuresis.
• Hypoglycemia Treatment:
  • A bolus may be given, followed by continuous infusion if needed to maintain euglycemia.

Dose must be titrated carefully and adjusted according to blood glucose monitoring and the patient's evolving clinical status.

Possible side effects of DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. is generally well-tolerated but may cause some side effects, especially if infused rapidly or in high volumes:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar)
  • Polyuria (excess urination)
  • Local infusion site irritation (pain, redness, swelling)
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Fluid overload leading to pulmonary edema
  • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hyponatremia, hypokalemia)
  • Thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the vein used for infusion)
• Rare Side Effects:
  • Allergic reactions (rash, anaphylaxis, though extremely rare)

Continuous monitoring is essential to detect and manage side effects early during therapy.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. Contraindications DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P. is contraindicated in specific clinical situations:

• Severe Hyperglycemia: In uncontrolled diabetes or hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS).
• Fluid Overload States: Such as congestive heart failure (CHF) or pulmonary edema.
• Anuria: In patients with severe renal failure without dialysis support.
• Intracranial or Intraspinal Hemorrhage: Elevated serum glucose can worsen neurologic outcomes.
• Known Allergy to Dextrose: Extremely rare but possible hypersensitivity reaction.

Contraindications must be assessed carefully before initiating Dextrose 20% therapy to avoid adverse outcomes.

Storage of DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.

Proper storage conditions are critical to maintaining the safety and efficacy of DEXTROSE 20% w/v B.P.:

• Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F–77°F); avoid freezing.
• Protection from Light: Store in the original container until time of use to minimize light exposure.
• Solution Integrity: Do not use if the solution is discolored, cloudy, or contains particulates.
• Container Inspection: Discard if the container shows any signs of leakage or damage.
• Post-Opening Use: Use immediately after opening and discard any unused portion to maintain sterility.

Strict adherence to storage recommendations ensures the preparation remains safe and effective for patient administration.