DEXTROSE 5% Infusion/Solution for

What is DEXTROSE 5%

DEXTROSE 5% is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous solution containing 5% dextrose (glucose) in water. It is commonly used as a source of fluid and calories for patients requiring parenteral hydration and nutritional support.

• Generic Name: Dextrose 5%
• Form: Infusion Solution (IV use)
• Size: 500ml Plastic Bottle
• Main Uses:
  • Provide hydration in cases of fluid loss
  • Serve as a carrier solution for the administration of intravenous medications
  • Offer caloric supplementation in patients unable to eat

This solution is isotonic upon administration but becomes hypotonic once the dextrose is metabolized, making it particularly useful for cellular hydration.

How to use DEXTROSE 5%

DEXTROSE 5% is intended for intravenous (IV) administration under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Proper technique and monitoring are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

• Administration Route: Intravenous infusion (peripheral or central line based on clinical judgment)
• Preparation:
  • Inspect the solution for clarity and container integrity before use.
  • Use aseptic technique during administration to avoid infections.
• Administration Tips:
  • Infuse at a controlled rate based on patient hydration status and medical condition.
  • Monitor serum glucose and electrolytes during prolonged use.
• Special Considerations:
  • Use with caution in diabetic patients to avoid hyperglycemia.
  • Monitor for signs of fluid overload in patients with cardiac or renal impairment.

Frequent reassessment of patient needs and infusion rates is crucial when using DEXTROSE 5% to ensure safe and effective therapy.

Mode of Action DEXTROSE 5%

DEXTROSE 5% works through its primary components — glucose and water — to exert therapeutic effects:

• Energy Provision: Dextrose is a simple sugar readily metabolized by the body to produce energy, vital for cellular functions.
• Fluid Replacement: Acts as a volume expander to replace lost fluids and maintain blood volume.
• Cellular Hydration: After metabolism of glucose, the remaining free water is distributed throughout body compartments, hydrating tissues and cells.
• Supportive Therapy: Serves as a vehicle for delivering other intravenous medications or electrolytes.

This dual role of providing both caloric energy and hydration makes DEXTROSE 5% a versatile agent in various medical settings, from emergency resuscitation to maintenance therapy.

DEXTROSE 5% Interactions DEXTROSE 5%

Although DEXTROSE 5% is generally well tolerated, it can interact with other medications or exacerbate certain conditions if not monitored carefully:

• Insulin: May necessitate adjustment in insulin doses for diabetic patients to prevent hyper- or hypoglycemia.
• Electrolyte Solutions: Often combined with potassium chloride or other electrolytes; compatibility must be verified before mixing.
• Medications Requiring Specific Osmolarity: Incompatibility can occur if mixed improperly with certain antibiotics or chemotherapy agents.
• Diuretics: May influence fluid and electrolyte balance when used simultaneously, requiring close monitoring.
• Corticosteroids: These can raise blood sugar levels and may necessitate monitoring during concurrent use.

To ensure safety, all concurrent medications should be assessed for compatibility with DEXTROSE 5% prior to co-administration.

Dosage of DEXTROSE 5%

The dosage of DEXTROSE 5% should be individualized based on the patient’s fluid requirements, clinical status, and metabolic demands:

• Adults:
  • Typical infusion rates range from 30ml to 100ml per hour depending on the clinical indication.
  • Higher rates may be needed for significant fluid losses, always under careful monitoring.
• Children:
  • Dose should be based on weight (e.g., maintenance fluids calculated as 4-2-1 rule: 4 ml/kg/hr for first 10kg, 2 ml/kg/hr for next 10kg, 1 ml/kg/hr for remaining kg).
• Elderly:
  • Use cautiously to avoid fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances.

Infusion should be adjusted based on ongoing fluid balance, electrolyte measurements, and blood glucose monitoring, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Possible side effects of DEXTROSE 5%

While generally considered safe, DEXTROSE 5% may cause side effects, particularly with inappropriate administration or in high-risk patients:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Local reactions such as redness, swelling, or phlebitis at the infusion site
  • Elevated blood glucose (hyperglycemia), especially in diabetic patients
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Fluid overload leading to pulmonary edema
  • Electrolyte imbalances such as hyponatremia (low sodium)
  • Acid-base disturbances like dilutional acidosis
• Rare Side Effects:
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty breathing)

Careful patient monitoring helps in early detection and management of these potential side effects.

DEXTROSE 5% Contraindications DEXTROSE 5%

DEXTROSE 5% should not be used in certain situations where it could worsen underlying conditions:

• Severe Hyperglycemia: Administration can further increase blood sugar levels dangerously.
• Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus: May exacerbate metabolic imbalance.
• Fluid Overload States: Such as congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema.
• Intracranial or Intraspinal Hemorrhage: Hypotonic fluids can worsen cerebral edema.
• Allergy to Corn or Corn Products: Dextrose solutions are often derived from corn.

Proper evaluation of the patient’s clinical condition is essential before starting therapy with DEXTROSE 5%.

Storage of DEXTROSE 5%

Proper storage ensures the safety and efficacy of DEXTROSE 5%:

• Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); avoid extreme temperatures.
• Protection: Keep away from light; do not freeze.
• Solution Inspection: Always inspect for particulate matter, cloudiness, or container damage before use.
• Post-Opening Use: The solution should be used immediately after opening to maintain sterility; discard any unused portion.

Following proper storage practices ensures that the infusion remains sterile and therapeutically effective at the time of use.