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 5 grams of dextrose per 100 ml of water. The 500ml plastic bag form is commonly used in clinical settings to restore fluid balance, provide calories, and serve as a vehicle for compatible medications. This isotonic solution is widely utilized across various medical scenarios where hydration or glucose supplementation is required.

• Generic Name: Dextrose
• Concentration: 5% w/v (5g of dextrose in 100ml of water)
• Form: Infusion/Solution for intravenous use
• Volume: 500ml plastic IV bag
• Indications:
  • Provides calories in the form of dextrose for energy metabolism
  • Treats dehydration and fluid loss from conditions like vomiting or diarrhea
  • Prevents ketosis in patients who cannot take food orally
  • Used as a vehicle for compatible intravenous drug delivery
• Safety: Approved for use in adults, children, and neonates under proper medical guidance

How to use 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

5% Dextrose Injection USP (500ml) should be administered only by healthcare professionals under aseptic conditions. It is typically delivered via intravenous infusion, depending on the patient’s fluid and caloric needs.

• Route of Administration: Intravenous infusion via peripheral or central vein
• Pre-infusion Checklist:
  • Inspect the bag for leaks, cloudiness, or particulate matter
  • Use only clear, colorless solution in an intact container
• Steps for Administration:
  1. Connect the bag to a sterile IV set
  2. Prime the tubing and eliminate air bubbles
  3. Set the flow rate as prescribed by the physician
  4. Use infusion pumps if precision is needed (e.g., in pediatric or critical care)
• Special Considerations:
  • Avoid bolus administration unless medically indicated
  • Monitor for signs of volume overload, especially in cardiac or renal patients
  • Discard any unused solution after 24 hours of opening

Mode of Action 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

Dextrose, the active ingredient in this IV fluid, provides a source of energy and helps maintain hydration. Upon administration, the solution exerts its effects by multiple physiological mechanisms that benefit patients requiring supportive care.

• Glucose Metabolism:
  • Dextrose is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and metabolized into glucose
  • Glucose enters cells via insulin-regulated transporters and undergoes glycolysis to produce ATP
• Energy Support:
  • Each 500ml bag provides approximately 85–100 kcal
  • Used to prevent catabolism and ketosis in fasting patients
• Fluid Restoration:
  • As an isotonic fluid, it distributes evenly in the extracellular space
  • Corrects mild to moderate dehydration and supports circulatory volume
• Compatibility with Medications:
  • Acts as a diluent for water-soluble drugs
  • Helps deliver medications that require glucose-containing carriers

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

While 5% Dextrose Injection is generally well-tolerated, it may interact with certain medications or clinical states, requiring careful patient monitoring and dosing adjustments.

• Medication Interactions:
  • Insulin: Co-administration may necessitate glucose monitoring and dose adjustments
  • Electrolytes: Dilution with dextrose alone can lead to electrolyte imbalance if not supplemented with sodium, potassium, etc.
  • Diuretics and Corticosteroids: May increase risk of fluid retention or electrolyte imbalance
  • Antibiotics: Some antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin) may have reduced stability in dextrose-containing fluids
• Incompatibility with Certain IV Drugs:
  • May cause precipitation or loss of potency when mixed directly
  • Always refer to drug compatibility charts before admixture
• Clinical Monitoring:
  • Serum glucose, electrolytes, and fluid status must be monitored
  • Care required in diabetics, heart failure, or renal insufficiency patients

Dosage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

Dosage of 5% Dextrose Injection (500ml) must be individualized based on age, weight, fluid requirement, and medical condition. It's crucial to avoid overhydration or hyperglycemia, particularly in vulnerable populations.

• Adults:
  • Typically 500ml to 3000ml per 24 hours
  • Infused at 50–100 ml/hour for maintenance
• Pediatrics:
  • Dosing based on body weight (typically 100–150 ml/kg/day)
  • Requires careful calculation and monitoring
• Neonates:
  • Often start at 60–100 ml/kg/day
  • Glucose infusion rate should not exceed 10–12 mg/kg/min
• Rate of Infusion:
  • Should be adjusted based on blood glucose and hydration status
  • Use infusion pumps for precision in sensitive populations
• Maximum Rate: Avoid rapid infusion (>100ml/hr) unless under critical care supervision
• Monitoring: Include glucose levels, fluid balance, weight, and electrolytes

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

Although generally safe, 5% Dextrose Injection can cause side effects, especially when used improperly or in patients with certain risk factors. Monitoring is essential to prevent complications.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Pain, swelling, or redness at the infusion site
  • Mild increase in blood glucose levels
  • Headache or fatigue in some patients
• Metabolic Effects:
  • Hyperglycemia—more likely in diabetics or with rapid infusion
  • Dilutional hyponatremia with prolonged use without electrolyte replacement
  • Hypokalemia—especially if not supplemented during long-term use
• Serious Adverse Reactions:
  • Fluid overload, leading to pulmonary edema or heart failure
  • Phlebitis or thrombosis with improper IV technique
  • Anaphylaxis (rare but possible in sensitive individuals)
• Preventive Measures:
  • Use correct infusion rate and dose
  • Monitor vital signs and labs periodically
  • Ensure proper IV site care to reduce infection or irritation

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

Though widely used, there are specific conditions in which 5% Dextrose Injection should not be used or must be used cautiously due to the risk of complications.

• Absolute Contraindications:
  • Known hypersensitivity to dextrose or solution components
  • Severe hyperglycemia or uncontrolled diabetes without insulin coverage
  • Patients with anoxic brain injury or cerebral edema—risk of increased intracranial pressure
• Relative Contraindications:
  • Fluid overload states, such as heart failure or pulmonary edema
  • Renal insufficiency—impaired excretion of free water can worsen fluid retention
  • Hyponatremia or at risk of developing low serum sodium
• Special Populations:
  • Diabetics require tight glucose monitoring
  • Neonates and elderly may be more prone to metabolic disturbances

Storage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE INJECTION USP

Proper storage of 5% Dextrose Injection is essential to maintain its sterility, potency, and safety. Improper handling can lead to contamination or reduced effectiveness.

• Temperature: Store between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15–30°C
• Light Sensitivity: Protect from light; keep in overwrap until use
• Freezing: Do not freeze—precipitation may occur if frozen
• Visual Inspection: Check for particulates, cloudiness, or discoloration before use
• Container Integrity: Discard if the bag is leaking or seal is broken
• Post-Opening: Use immediately after opening; discard any unused portion