(Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag) Intravenous Infusion

What is (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

(Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution intended for intravenous administration. It contains glucose (also known as dextrose), a simple sugar that serves as a primary energy source for the body. Each 1000 ml Viaflo bag delivers 50 grams of glucose dissolved in water for injection, with an osmolarity close to that of plasma, making it suitable for fluid and energy replenishment.

This solution is commonly used in clinical settings for:

• Providing calories during parenteral nutrition when oral or enteral intake is inadequate or not possible
• Treating dehydration and restoring fluid balance, especially in cases of hypoglycemia or ketosis
• Serving as a diluent for other compatible intravenous medications
• Maintaining blood glucose levels during surgical procedures or in critically ill patients

It is typically administered under strict medical supervision, especially in patients with diabetes, renal impairment, or fluid overload risk. The Viaflo bag packaging ensures a closed system to maintain sterility, and each bag is intended for single use only. Being a well-tolerated and widely used intravenous glucose formulation, it is part of essential hospital supplies in emergency, critical care, and routine medical practices.

How to use (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

(Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v IV Infusion should only be used under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Its administration route is strictly intravenous, either by peripheral or central vein depending on the patient’s clinical status and infusion volume.

General usage instructions include:

• Check the bag integrity: Use only if the Viaflo bag is undamaged, the solution is clear, and there are no particles or discoloration.
• Dosage and rate of administration: Must be individualized based on patient age, weight, hydration status, and clinical condition.
• Administration method: Infuse using a sterile infusion set. Use aseptic technique to connect the IV line. Start the infusion slowly and adjust the rate according to the patient’s glucose metabolism and fluid needs.
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor blood glucose levels, serum electrolytes, and fluid balance during administration.
• Do not mix with incompatible solutions: If used as a diluent, verify compatibility with the drug to be mixed.
• Single-use only: Discard any unused portion after infusion to avoid contamination risks.

The infusion may last from a few minutes to several hours depending on therapeutic needs. Extra caution should be taken in patients with renal impairment, diabetes, heart failure, or any condition predisposing to fluid overload or glucose intolerance.

Mode of Action (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

The primary therapeutic effect of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v stems from its ability to supply water and a readily metabolizable form of energy – glucose – directly into the bloodstream. Upon intravenous infusion, the glucose is rapidly distributed throughout the body and utilized in cellular metabolic processes to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

Key mechanisms include:

• Energy production: Glucose undergoes glycolysis and enters the Krebs cycle to yield ATP, which powers essential cellular activities.
• Fluid balance restoration: The isotonic nature of the 5% glucose solution helps maintain intravascular volume and supports hydration.
• Prevention of ketosis: In the absence of sufficient glucose intake, the body breaks down fats, producing ketone bodies. IV glucose inhibits this process, preventing ketoacidosis in fasting or catabolic states.
• Osmotic effect: Glucose exerts an osmotic influence that helps draw water into the vascular space, aiding in plasma volume expansion.

Once metabolized, glucose leaves behind free water, which distributes across all body fluid compartments. This action makes it particularly useful in managing dehydration and electrolyte-free fluid loss. Additionally, the lack of electrolytes in the solution makes it suitable for dilution or temporary glucose supplementation without altering electrolyte balance.

(Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag) Interactions (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

Though (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion is generally safe, it can interact with certain drugs or physiological conditions. These interactions are mainly related to its glucose content and its potential effects on fluid and electrolyte balance.

Potential interactions include:

• Insulin and oral hypoglycemics: Concurrent administration may enhance the hypoglycemic effects, necessitating frequent glucose monitoring.
• Corticosteroids and diuretics: These can alter glucose metabolism or electrolyte levels, leading to imbalances when combined with IV glucose infusion.
• Electrolyte solutions: If co-administered with electrolyte-containing fluids or medications, the absence of electrolytes in this infusion could dilute serum electrolyte levels, causing hyponatremia or hypokalemia.
• Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin): Hypokalemia caused by dilutional effects may increase sensitivity to digoxin, raising the risk of toxicity.
• Loop diuretics: Increased risk of volume overload or electrolyte shifts when both fluids are administered together.

Additionally, conditions such as diabetes mellitus, renal dysfunction, or congestive heart failure can significantly affect the body’s response to IV glucose infusions, and should be managed cautiously. Continuous clinical monitoring and lab testing are crucial to avoid complications such as hyperglycemia or fluid overload.

Dosage of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

The appropriate dosage of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion is patient-specific and should be determined by a physician based on individual clinical parameters such as age, weight, hydration status, and glucose requirements.

General dosing guidelines include:

• Adults: Typically 500 ml to 3000 ml per day, administered at a controlled rate (e.g., 3–4 ml/kg/hr), depending on fluid and caloric needs.
• Pediatrics: 100 ml/kg/day may be appropriate for infants and children, adjusted based on age and clinical status.
• Elderly: Lower infusion rates may be required due to decreased renal or cardiac reserve.

Administration rate should be adjusted to:

• Maintain euglycemia and avoid hyperglycemia
• Prevent fluid overload, especially in patients with heart or kidney disease
• Ensure safe electrolyte balance if used in combination with other parenteral fluids

When used as a vehicle for drug delivery, the dose must also account for the volume and compatibility of the added drug. Frequent monitoring of blood glucose, fluid balance, and electrolytes is essential during prolonged therapy or in critically ill patients.

Possible side effects of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

While generally safe and well-tolerated, (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion may cause side effects, especially when infused rapidly, in excessive volumes, or in predisposed individuals.

Common side effects include:

• Hyperglycemia: Elevated blood sugar levels, particularly in diabetic patients or when given in large amounts.
• Fluid overload: Can lead to pulmonary edema or congestive heart failure, especially in elderly or renal-compromised individuals.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Hyponatremia or hypokalemia may result if the solution is used without appropriate electrolyte supplementation.

Less common but serious adverse effects:

• Thrombophlebitis: Inflammation or clotting at the infusion site
• Allergic reactions: Rare, but may include rash, itching, or anaphylactoid symptoms
• Osmotic diuresis: Excessive urinary output due to high glucose loads

Patients receiving this infusion should be regularly monitored for changes in respiratory status, fluid balance, and lab values. Any signs of adverse effects require prompt intervention and adjustment of therapy.

(Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag) Contraindications (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

The use of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion is contraindicated in specific conditions where glucose administration or fluid volume expansion could be harmful.

Absolute contraindications include:

• Hyperglycemia uncontrolled by insulin therapy
• Hypokalemia without concurrent potassium replacement
• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to glucose or solution components
• Intracranial or intraspinal hemorrhage: Where hyperosmolarity might worsen cerebral edema

Relative contraindications (caution advised):

• Diabetes mellitus: Risk of hyperglycemia; monitor closely
• Congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema: Risk of fluid overload
• Renal impairment: Reduced ability to excrete fluids and glucose
• Anuria or severe oliguria: Fluid accumulation risk

Before initiating therapy, a comprehensive assessment including blood glucose levels, renal function, and cardiovascular status is necessary. In patients at risk, individualized treatment plans and close monitoring are vital.

Storage of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion (Viaflo bag)

Proper storage of (Baxter) Glucose 5% w/v Intravenous Infusion is crucial to maintain product integrity, sterility, and therapeutic efficacy.

Recommended storage guidelines:

• Temperature: Store at 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Avoid exposure to extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
• Light protection: Keep in outer carton until ready to use to protect from excessive light.
• Inspect before use: Do not use if the solution is discolored, contains particulate matter, or if the Viaflo bag is damaged or leaking.
• Single-use only: Once the bag is opened and accessed, it must be used immediately and not stored for later use.
• Do not use after expiration date: Always check the printed expiry on the label.

The solution should be kept in a clean and dry environment, away from contaminants or direct sunlight. Follow institutional protocols for IV fluid storage and disposal, especially if the solution has been partially used or contaminated.