5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Infusion/Solution for

What is 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

5% Dextrose & 0.45% Sodium Chloride Injection USP is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous (IV) fluid that combines a glucose solution with a hypotonic saline solution. This combination is widely used in hospital and clinical settings to provide hydration, correct electrolyte imbalances, and supply a moderate caloric intake in patients unable to receive adequate nutrition orally.

• Dextrose (5%): A form of glucose that serves as an immediate energy source, especially vital in patients under metabolic stress or with inadequate caloric intake.
• Sodium Chloride (0.45%): A hypotonic saline solution that helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, especially sodium and chloride ions essential for cellular function.
• Presentation: Supplied in a 100ml plastic IV bag, this preparation is typically administered through intravenous infusion under strict medical supervision.
• Clinical uses include:
  • Maintenance of fluid balance
  • Prevention or treatment of dehydration
  • Mild sodium depletion cases
  • As a carrier fluid for other intravenous medications

This solution is classified under parenteral nutrition and fluid replacement therapy and complies with the standards of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP).

How to use 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

This IV fluid is intended for use in a hospital setting under the supervision of healthcare professionals. The solution must be administered aseptically via intravenous infusion.

• Method of Administration:
  • Administer intravenously using a sterile IV line.
  • Infuse slowly to avoid complications such as fluid overload or rapid shifts in electrolyte balance.
• Inspection Prior to Use:
  • Check the plastic bag for leaks or visible particles.
  • Discard any bag that is discolored, damaged, or past its expiration date.
• Monitoring:
  • Regularly assess blood glucose levels, serum electrolytes, and renal function during prolonged use.
  • Monitor vital signs and fluid status, especially in pediatric, elderly, or critically ill patients.
• Compatibility:
  • Can be used as a vehicle for compatible intravenous medications.
  • Incompatibilities should be checked before adding any substances to the infusion.

Always follow institutional protocols and physician orders for dosage and rate of infusion. Self-administration or unsupervised use is strictly contraindicated.

Mode of Action 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

The therapeutic effect of 5% Dextrose & 0.45% Sodium Chloride Injection USP results from the complementary roles of its two components—dextrose and sodium chloride.

• Dextrose:
  • Rapidly absorbed by cells and metabolized to carbon dioxide and water, producing ATP (energy).
  • Provides essential calories, helping to preserve protein stores and reduce catabolism in stress conditions.
  • Increases insulin secretion, which facilitates glucose uptake and potassium shift into cells.
• Sodium Chloride (0.45%):
  • A hypotonic saline that delivers sodium and chloride ions.
  • Sodium is key in extracellular fluid volume regulation, nerve conduction, and muscle function.
  • Chloride plays a role in acid-base homeostasis and gastric acid production.

Together, this combination addresses both caloric and fluid requirements, making it particularly useful for maintenance therapy in patients with mild fluid and electrolyte needs.

5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Interactions 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

While this IV solution is generally safe, it can interact with other medications or conditions that affect fluid, glucose, or electrolyte balance.

• Drug Interactions:
  • Insulin: May increase the risk of hypoglycemia due to enhanced glucose uptake.
  • Diuretics: Can either potentiate fluid loss (loop diuretics) or cause hypernatremia/hyponatremia.
  • Corticosteroids: May increase sodium and water retention, potentially reducing the solution’s hypotonic effect.
• Pharmaceutical Incompatibilities:
  • Not all IV medications are compatible with dextrose-containing solutions.
  • Always consult a pharmacist or reference guide before co-administering with other IV drugs.

Close monitoring is essential when this solution is used in patients on complex pharmacotherapy or with unstable metabolic conditions.

Dosage of 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

Dosage is determined based on the patient's clinical condition, age, weight, fluid status, and metabolic needs. It must always be prescribed by a healthcare provider.

• Adults:
  • Typical maintenance dose ranges from 1000 to 2500 ml/day, but the 100ml unit is often used for short infusions or as a diluent.
  • Infusion rate: Typically between 20–100 ml/hour, adjusted according to the clinical situation.
• Pediatric:
  • Dose based on body weight: Around 20–100 ml/kg/day.
  • Requires careful adjustment to avoid fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances.
• Elderly or Renally Impaired Patients:
  • Reduced infusion rates and close monitoring are recommended due to decreased renal function or cardiac reserve.

Do not exceed prescribed volume or rate of infusion. Over-infusion may lead to serious complications such as pulmonary edema, hyponatremia, or hyperglycemia.

Possible side effects of 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

While generally safe when administered correctly, this IV fluid can cause certain side effects, particularly in sensitive patients or when administered in excess.

• Local Reactions:
  • Pain or redness at the injection site
  • Thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the vein)
• Systemic Effects:
  • Hyperglycemia (especially in diabetic patients)
  • Hyponatremia or hypernatremia, depending on volume and renal function
  • Fluid overload leading to pulmonary edema or heart failure
• Rare but Serious:
  • Anaphylactic reactions (extremely rare)
  • Electrolyte disturbances with neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures

Any unusual symptoms or signs of fluid imbalance should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Contraindications 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

This solution is contraindicated in certain medical conditions where fluid or electrolyte balance is compromised.

• Absolute Contraindications:
  • Known hypersensitivity to dextrose or sodium chloride
  • Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
  • Severe renal impairment with oliguria or anuria
• Relative Contraindications (Use with caution):
  • Heart failure or fluid-retaining states
  • Hyponatremia or sodium imbalance disorders
  • Postoperative patients at risk of fluid shifts or cerebral edema

Always perform a thorough clinical assessment before initiating therapy, particularly in high-risk populations.

Storage of 5% DEXTROSE & 0.45% SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

Proper storage is essential to maintain sterility, potency, and safety of the solution.

• Storage Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); protect from excessive heat and freezing.
• Light Exposure: Keep away from direct sunlight and UV exposure.
• Handling:
  • Inspect solution visually for clarity and absence of particulate matter before use.
  • Do not use if the container is damaged or the seal is broken.
• Disposal: Discard unused portions after use. Do not reuse partially used containers.

Adhere to hospital policies and manufacturer instructions to ensure safe storage and use.