5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Infusion/Solution for

What is 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

5% w/v Dextrose & 0.18% w/v Sodium Chloride Injection USP is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous (IV) solution used to replace fluids and electrolytes in the body. It combines two critical components:

• Dextrose (5% w/v): A simple sugar (glucose) that provides a quick source of energy.
• Sodium Chloride (0.18% w/v): A saline component used to maintain or restore the body's electrolyte and fluid balance.

This IV solution is commonly used in clinical settings such as hospitals and emergency care for:

• Hydration therapy in patients who are unable to take oral fluids
• Treatment or prevention of dehydration
• Maintenance fluid therapy in post-operative and critically ill patients
• Restoration of mild sodium and glucose loss from diarrhea or vomiting

It is delivered via intravenous infusion and is available in a 2000ml plastic bag, ideal for continuous infusion over a prolonged period.

How to use 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

This medication should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. It is given by slow intravenous infusion, often via a peripheral or central vein, depending on the patient’s condition and volume status.

• Preparation: Inspect the plastic bag for leaks or particulate matter. Do not use if the solution is discolored or cloudy.
• Administration route: Intravenous (IV) infusion using an aseptic technique
• Dosage volume and rate: Determined based on the patient's clinical condition, age, body weight, electrolyte balance, and hydration status.
• Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs, fluid intake/output, and electrolyte levels is essential during therapy.

Nurses or clinicians must regularly assess the IV site for signs of infiltration or phlebitis and adjust infusion rates based on therapeutic response or complications.

Do not mix with other medications in the same IV line unless compatibility has been confirmed. Use only the entire content of the bag and discard any remaining solution after a single use.

Mode of Action 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

This infusion works by delivering two physiologically important substances—glucose and sodium chloride—directly into the bloodstream to restore energy, fluids, and electrolytes.

• Dextrose: Provides a readily available source of glucose that can be metabolized by cells for energy. It helps to prevent ketosis in patients with limited oral intake or fasting states.
• Sodium Chloride: Provides sodium and chloride ions essential for maintaining extracellular fluid volume, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle function.

The combined effect of these ingredients:

• Rehydrates tissues by expanding the extracellular fluid volume
• Supports cellular metabolism by supplying glucose
• Corrects mild sodium depletion in cases like diarrhea, vomiting, or fluid loss from surgery

This isotonic-to-hypotonic solution also provides a mild diuretic effect due to the dextrose component once it is metabolized, aiding in urinary excretion of excess fluids or toxins.

5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Interactions 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

While generally considered safe, 5% Dextrose & 0.18% Sodium Chloride IV infusion may interact with certain medications or medical conditions. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all current treatments to avoid adverse effects.

• Corticosteroids and ACTH: May lead to sodium retention and increased potassium excretion, worsening fluid overload.
• Diuretics: Can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance, especially hyponatremia or hypokalemia.
• Insulin: Enhances the uptake of dextrose into cells; improper monitoring can cause hypoglycemia.
• Other IV medications: Mixing with incompatible drugs (e.g., certain antibiotics or calcium-containing solutions) can lead to precipitation or instability.

Interactions with disease states:

• Renal impairment: May lead to fluid overload, hyperglycemia, or electrolyte imbalance.
• Heart failure or pulmonary edema: Risk of fluid retention and exacerbation of symptoms.
• Diabetes mellitus: Dextrose can raise blood glucose levels; careful monitoring is required.

Always check drug compatibility if adding other medications into the IV line. Do not use with blood products without appropriate clinical validation.

Dosage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

The dosage must be individualized based on the patient's needs, clinical status, and fluid/electrolyte requirements. The infusion is prescribed by a physician and administered under medical supervision.

• Adults: The typical infusion rate ranges from 500ml to 2000ml/day depending on maintenance or replacement needs.
• Children: Dosage is weight-based and must be calculated precisely to avoid fluid overload or electrolyte imbalances.
• Elderly: Dose adjustments may be required due to decreased renal function and higher susceptibility to fluid overload.

General dosing principles include:

• Infuse slowly to monitor for tolerance and adverse effects
• Adjust rate according to urine output, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels
• Do not exceed recommended daily sodium or glucose limits

This 2000ml bag is often used for continuous infusions over several hours, especially in hospitalized patients. Strict aseptic technique and ongoing monitoring are critical during administration.

Possible side effects of 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

While generally safe when used appropriately, some patients may experience side effects from this IV infusion. Reactions are usually related to volume overload, glucose levels, or electrolyte disturbances.

• Common side effects:
  • Swelling (edema)
  • Increased urination
  • Mild rise in blood glucose (especially in diabetics)
  • Injection site irritation or inflammation
• Serious side effects:
  • Hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia
  • Hyponatremia or hypernatremia
  • Pulmonary edema (in case of fluid overload)
  • Heart failure exacerbation
  • Allergic reactions (rare): rash, itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis

Early signs of adverse reactions include headache, nausea, confusion, trouble breathing, or chest discomfort. Any of these should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.

5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Contraindications 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

This IV solution is contraindicated in patients with certain medical conditions where fluid or electrolyte imbalance could be harmful.

• Severe renal impairment: Risk of fluid overload and inability to excrete sodium and water
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus: Dextrose may worsen hyperglycemia
• Congestive heart failure: Increased fluid can exacerbate cardiac workload
• Hypernatremia: Solution may worsen sodium excess
• Intracranial or intraspinal hemorrhage: Risk of fluid-induced brain swelling

Additional considerations include:

• Hypersensitivity to dextrose or sodium chloride
• Oliguria or anuria (no or minimal urine output)
• Conditions where glucose metabolism is impaired (e.g., glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency)

Use with extreme caution in neonates and geriatric populations due to their altered fluid and electrolyte needs.

Storage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.18% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

Proper storage of IV fluids ensures efficacy, sterility, and patient safety. The 2000ml plastic bag of this solution should be stored under the following conditions:

• Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C.
• Keep away from: Direct sunlight, freezing temperatures, and high humidity.
• Do not use if: The solution appears cloudy, contains particulates, or if the bag is damaged or leaking.
• Shelf life: Follow the expiry date printed on the bag and outer carton. Do not use beyond this date.

Once the bag is opened or punctured, it must be used immediately. Any unused portion should be discarded and never stored for later use. Avoid adding incompatible medications without confirming compatibility.

Always keep out of reach of children and use only under medical supervision.