20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P. Infusion/Solution for

What is 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

20% w/v Glucose Intravenous Infusion B.P. is a sterile, concentrated solution of glucose (dextrose) used for intravenous administration. It provides a highly concentrated source of energy in the form of glucose, essential for cellular metabolism and function. This formulation contains 20 grams of glucose per 100 milliliters of solution, making it a hypertonic solution primarily used in clinical settings to treat hypoglycemia, provide nutritional support, or manage patients requiring rapid glucose supplementation.

• Primary Ingredient: Dextrose (glucose) at 20% weight/volume concentration.
• Formulation: Sterile, clear, and colorless infusion solution in a 50 ml plastic bag.
• Purpose: Rapid correction of low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), parenteral nutrition, and energy supplementation in patients unable to ingest adequate carbohydrates orally.
• Clinical Uses: Used in emergency treatment of hypoglycemia, as a calorie source in intravenous nutrition, and sometimes to correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
• Administration: Given intravenously under medical supervision, allowing precise control over glucose delivery.

How to use 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

Administration of 20% glucose infusion requires strict adherence to medical guidelines to ensure patient safety and therapeutic efficacy.

• Route: Intravenous infusion via a peripheral or central venous line.
• Preparation: Check the solution for clarity and integrity of the packaging before use; do not use if contaminated or damaged.
• Infusion Rate: Adjust infusion speed based on clinical need; rapid infusion is typically reserved for acute hypoglycemia, while slower rates are used for nutritional support.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood glucose, electrolytes, fluid balance, and vital signs during infusion is critical to avoid complications such as hyperglycemia or fluid overload.
• Compatibility: Avoid mixing with incompatible drugs or solutions unless compatibility is confirmed to prevent precipitation or loss of potency.
• Single-use: Discard any unused solution after opening to prevent infection risks.

Mode of Action 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

The therapeutic effects of 20% glucose infusion derive from the physiological role of glucose as a fundamental cellular fuel.

• Energy Source: Glucose is rapidly transported into cells and metabolized through glycolysis and the citric acid cycle to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cellular energy currency.
• Maintains Blood Glucose Levels: Infusion restores and sustains adequate blood glucose concentrations in hypoglycemic states, preventing neurological damage and other complications.
• Protein-Sparing Effect: By providing glucose, it reduces the need for the body to metabolize proteins for energy, preserving muscle mass and other tissues.
• Osmotic Effects: As a hypertonic solution, it influences fluid shifts between compartments, which must be carefully managed during administration.
• Supports Metabolism: Glucose is essential for brain function, red blood cell energy production (which rely exclusively on glucose), and overall cellular metabolism.

20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P. Interactions 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

Potential interactions with other drugs and conditions must be considered during therapy with 20% glucose infusion to avoid adverse effects.

• Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics: Insulin facilitates cellular glucose uptake; concurrent use requires careful monitoring to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
• Diuretics: May alter fluid and electrolyte balance, increasing risks of dehydration or electrolyte abnormalities when combined with glucose infusions.
• Corticosteroids and Sympathomimetics: Can raise blood glucose levels, potentially necessitating adjustment in glucose infusion rates.
• Beta-blockers: May mask symptoms of hypoglycemia, making monitoring more challenging.
• Patients with Renal or Cardiac Impairment: Altered fluid handling can interact with infusion volume, requiring dosage adjustments and close observation.

Dosage of 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

Dosage varies widely depending on the clinical indication, patient age, weight, and metabolic status. It must be individualized by healthcare professionals.

• Adults: For hypoglycemia, a typical bolus of 50 mL of 20% glucose may be administered intravenously, followed by maintenance infusion as required.
• Children and Neonates: Dose is weight-based and carefully calculated, often lower volumes administered slowly to avoid osmotic injury.
• Maintenance Infusion: Rates typically range from 1 to 4 mg/kg/min of glucose infusion, adjusted according to blood glucose monitoring.
• Special Populations: Patients with diabetes, renal, or cardiac disease may require lower infusion rates to prevent complications.
• Monitoring: Frequent blood glucose checks guide dosing adjustments to avoid hypo- or hyperglycemia.

Possible side effects of 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

While generally safe when used appropriately, 20% glucose infusion can cause side effects, especially if administered improperly.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Phlebitis or irritation at the infusion site
  • Mild fluid overload or edema
  • Transient headache or dizziness
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Hyperglycemia, potentially leading to osmotic diuresis, dehydration, or diabetic ketoacidosis in susceptible patients
  • Electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia, due to insulin-induced cellular shifts of potassium
  • Fluid overload, pulmonary edema, or heart failure exacerbation if infused too rapidly or in excess
  • Rare allergic reactions including rash or anaphylaxis

20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P. Contraindications 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

The use of 20% glucose infusion is contraindicated in certain clinical scenarios where risks outweigh benefits.

• Known hypersensitivity to glucose or any component of the formulation.
• Hyperglycemia: Patients with elevated blood sugar levels or uncontrolled diabetes should avoid or use with extreme caution.
• Severe dehydration: Without adequate fluid replacement, hypertonic glucose may worsen cellular dehydration.
• Intracranial or intraspinal hemorrhage: Risk of exacerbating cerebral edema with hyperosmolar solutions.
• Severe renal or cardiac insufficiency: Risk of fluid overload and electrolyte disturbances.
• Neonates and infants: Use with caution to avoid osmotic damage and ensure proper dilution.

Storage of 20% w/v GLUCOSE INTRAVENOUS INFUSION B.P.

Maintaining proper storage conditions preserves the quality and safety of the glucose infusion solution.

• Store at controlled room temperature, typically between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
• Protect from freezing; freezing can cause precipitation or damage to the container.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.
• Ensure the plastic bag remains sealed and intact; do not use if damaged or leaking.
• Use immediately after opening; discard any unused portion to prevent contamination.
• Observe the expiration date printed on the packaging; do not use expired solutions.