5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP Infusion/Solution for

What is 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

5% w/v Dextrose Injection USP is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous (IV) solution composed of dextrose (glucose) dissolved in water for injection. Each 500ml plastic bottle contains 25g of dextrose, making it an isotonic solution with an osmolarity similar to plasma. It is widely used in clinical practice for fluid replacement, hydration, and as a source of calories when oral intake is not possible.

• Generic Name: Dextrose
• Concentration: 5% weight/volume (5g/100ml)
• Packaging: 500ml sterile plastic bottle, sealed for single use only
• Classification: Parenteral solution for intravenous infusion
• Main Uses:
  • Fluid and electrolyte maintenance
  • Caloric supplementation in patients with limited oral intake
  • Vehicle for reconstitution or dilution of compatible IV medications
  • Management of mild hypoglycemia

This solution is especially beneficial in situations such as post-operative recovery, gastrointestinal losses, and short-term fasting, where fluid and energy needs must be met intravenously.

How to use 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

5% Dextrose Injection USP should only be administered by healthcare professionals using strict aseptic techniques. Its usage depends on the clinical status and individual needs of the patient.

• Route of Administration: Intravenous (IV) infusion through a sterile IV set
• Preparation and Administration:
  • Inspect the plastic bottle for integrity and clarity of the solution. Do not use if the solution is cloudy or the container is leaking.
  • Remove the plastic overwrap if present. Clean the port with an antiseptic swab before connecting the IV tubing.
  • Administer the solution using a sterile infusion set under gravity or with an infusion pump.
• Rate of Infusion:
  • Determined by age, weight, clinical condition, and fluid requirements
  • Generally infused at a controlled rate to avoid complications like hyperglycemia or fluid overload
• Monitoring During Use:
  • Blood glucose levels
  • Serum electrolytes
  • Signs of fluid overload (e.g., edema, shortness of breath)

Use of infusion pumps can help maintain accurate flow rates, especially in pediatric or critically ill patients.

Mode of Action 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

5% Dextrose Injection USP works by replenishing fluids and providing a readily metabolizable carbohydrate source. Its pharmacological action supports energy metabolism and fluid balance.

• Glucose Metabolism:
  • Dextrose (glucose) is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream after IV administration.
  • It is metabolized in body cells to produce ATP, carbon dioxide, and water via glycolysis and the Krebs cycle.
• Caloric Supply:
  • Provides approximately 170 kcal per 500ml bottle
  • Helps prevent ketosis and protein catabolism during fasting
• Hydration Support:
  • Maintains intravascular and intracellular fluid volume due to its isotonic nature
  • Once glucose is metabolized, the remaining free water distributes evenly in the body compartments

Thus, the solution serves dual roles—hydration and energy support—without causing osmotic shifts when infused appropriately.

5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP Interactions 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

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Though generally safe, 5% Dextrose Injection may interact with specific drugs and underlying disease states. These interactions may affect treatment efficacy or increase risk of adverse effects.

• Drug Interactions:
  • Insulin: Enhances cellular glucose uptake; may lead to hypoglycemia if glucose levels are not monitored closely.
  • Corticosteroids: Can promote fluid retention, possibly countering the hydration benefits of dextrose solution.
  • Diuretics: May affect electrolyte balance when combined with IV fluids.
  • Amphotericin B or other nephrotoxic drugs: May increase the risk of renal complications with prolonged fluid therapy.
• Compatibility Issues:
  • Always confirm compatibility before mixing with other IV drugs.
  • Should not be co-administered with blood products unless clinically justified.
• Disease Interactions:
  • Diabetes Mellitus: Risk of hyperglycemia; frequent glucose monitoring is mandatory.
  • Heart failure: Fluid overload may exacerbate symptoms.
  • Renal impairment: Reduced ability to excrete excess fluid may lead to edema or electrolyte imbalance.

Careful patient evaluation and monitoring help prevent potential interaction-related complications.

Dosage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

Dosage of 5% Dextrose Injection USP varies depending on the patient's condition, age, weight, and fluid and energy requirements. Administration should always be supervised by healthcare professionals.

• General Adult Dosage:
  • 500ml to 3000ml per day in divided doses based on hydration and caloric needs
  • Administered over several hours at a controlled rate (e.g., 1–2 liters/day for maintenance)
• Pediatric Dosage:
  • Based on weight: typically 100ml/kg/day
  • Infused slowly using an infusion pump for precision
• Geriatric or Compromised Patients:
  • Lower volumes may be required due to reduced renal function or cardiac output
• Rate of Administration:
  • Should not exceed 0.5g/kg/hour of dextrose
  • Use infusion pumps to ensure controlled delivery, especially in at-risk patients

Adjustments should be made based on laboratory results, including blood glucose and electrolyte levels.

Possible side effects of 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

Although 5% Dextrose Injection is generally safe, side effects may occur, particularly with prolonged or inappropriate use.

• Local Reactions:
  • Phlebitis (vein inflammation) at the injection site
  • Pain, redness, or swelling near the IV insertion site
• Systemic Side Effects:
  • Hyperglycemia, especially in diabetic or insulin-resistant patients
  • Fluid overload, potentially leading to pulmonary edema in at-risk individuals
  • Electrolyte imbalances such as hyponatremia or hypokalemia
• Metabolic Effects:
  • Osmotic diuresis if administered rapidly or in large volumes
  • Hypokalemia due to insulin-driven intracellular potassium shift
• Allergic Reactions (Rare):
  • Fever, rash, or in very rare cases, anaphylaxis

Early detection and intervention are crucial to managing these effects effectively. Routine monitoring during administration is strongly recommended.

5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP Contraindications 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

There are specific clinical situations in which 5% Dextrose Injection USP should be avoided or used with caution.

• Absolute Contraindications:
  • Known hypersensitivity to dextrose or any component of the solution
  • Severe hyperglycemia or diabetic coma not controlled with insulin
  • Patients with cerebral edema or intracranial bleeding (as glucose can worsen osmotic shifts)
• Relative Contraindications (Use with Caution):
  • Diabetes mellitus—requires glucose level monitoring and insulin adjustments
  • Renal impairment—monitor for fluid overload and adjust volume accordingly
  • Congestive heart failure—risk of volume overload and pulmonary edema

Careful patient assessment and individualized dosing are essential before initiation of therapy.

Storage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

Proper storage is essential to maintain the sterility, stability, and effectiveness of 5% Dextrose Injection USP.

• Temperature Requirements:
  • Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F–86°F)
  • Avoid exposure to freezing temperatures or excessive heat
• Protection from Light:
  • No special protection from light is required for plastic bottles
• Handling Instructions:
  • Inspect solution before use; discard if discolored or if the container is damaged
  • Single-use container: discard unused portion immediately after use
• During Transport:
  • Ensure containers remain sealed and upright to prevent contamination or leakage

Following these storage and handling recommendations ensures safety and efficacy until administration.