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

What is 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

5% W/V Dextrose & 0.45% W/V Sodium Chloride is a sterile, non-pyrogenic intravenous (IV) solution used primarily for fluid and electrolyte replenishment in patients requiring intravenous therapy. This solution combines two essential components:

• Dextrose (5% w/v): A form of glucose that provides a source of calories and fluid for hydration and energy support.
• Sodium Chloride (0.45% w/v): A hypotonic saline solution that helps restore electrolyte balance, especially sodium.

This combination solution is often utilized in clinical settings for the management of mild hyponatremia, as a maintenance fluid in pediatric or adult patients, or for general hydration purposes when oral intake is inadequate or contraindicated.

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

The administration of this intravenous fluid should always follow physician guidance and hospital protocols. Here are general principles:

• Route: Administered intravenously using a sterile IV line and infusion pump or drip set.
• Rate of Administration: The infusion rate depends on the patient's age, weight, fluid balance, electrolyte status, and clinical condition.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes, glucose levels, fluid status, and renal function is essential during infusion.
• Preparation: Do not add supplementary medications to the bag unless confirmed compatible. Always check for leaks or particulate matter before use.
• Patient Positioning: Position patient comfortably with IV access secured.

In hospitalized patients, usage is typically supervised by nursing staff under medical orders. Overuse or rapid infusion may lead to complications such as fluid overload or electrolyte disturbances.

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

This solution acts through the combined pharmacologic effects of dextrose and sodium chloride:

• Dextrose: Rapidly absorbed and metabolized to provide energy. It also helps reduce protein catabolism and spares body protein stores. In tissues, dextrose enters cells via insulin-mediated mechanisms, promoting intracellular metabolism.
• Sodium Chloride: Dissociates in solution to provide sodium (Na⁺) and chloride (Cl⁻) ions, essential for maintaining osmotic balance, acid-base status, nerve conduction, and muscular activity.

The solution is hypotonic compared to blood plasma, allowing it to help rehydrate cells while also expanding extracellular fluid volume. This dual action supports patients in need of both glucose supplementation and sodium correction.

5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Interactions 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

This solution can interact with various medications and conditions:

• Diuretics: May enhance sodium and water loss, potentially exacerbating electrolyte imbalances.
• Corticosteroids or Mineralocorticoids: May cause sodium retention and potassium loss, requiring close monitoring when co-administered.
• Insulin: Enhances cellular uptake of dextrose; requires glucose monitoring to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Other IV Medications: Compatibility must be checked before co-administration through the same line, especially with antibiotics, calcium salts, or potassium chloride.
• Renal Impairment: Reduced clearance of sodium and water may increase the risk of hypernatremia or fluid overload.

Always assess the patient’s current medications, renal function, and electrolyte status before administration to prevent complications and drug-fluid interactions.

Dosage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

Dosage depends on individual patient needs, including age, weight, clinical status, and ongoing losses:

• Adults: Commonly administered at maintenance rates of 30–40 mL/kg/day, adjusted based on hydration and electrolyte needs.
• Children: Dosing follows pediatric maintenance fluid guidelines (e.g., Holliday-Segar formula), with continuous monitoring of serum electrolytes and glucose.
• Geriatric Patients: Require individualized dosing due to potential cardiac or renal compromise.
• Critical Illness or Surgical Cases: Fluid needs are adjusted to match surgical stress, fluid losses, or nutritional support protocols.

Always administer under medical supervision. Overdosage can result in hyperglycemia, fluid overload, or electrolyte imbalance, especially in patients with compromised renal or cardiac function.

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

While generally well-tolerated when used correctly, some adverse reactions may occur:

• Common: Localized vein irritation, swelling, or inflammation at the IV site.
• Metabolic: Hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, or dilutional hyponatremia with excessive infusion.
• Systemic: Fluid overload, especially in patients with heart failure, kidney disease, or hepatic dysfunction.
• Infections: Risk of contamination if aseptic technique is not followed during administration.
• Allergic Reactions: Rare but may include rash, itching, or anaphylaxis in hypersensitive individuals.

Prompt discontinuation and medical evaluation are recommended if any signs of adverse reaction occur.

5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP Contraindications 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

Use of this solution is contraindicated in certain medical conditions, including:

• Hypernatremia or Hyperchloremia: Risk of worsening electrolyte imbalance.
• Severe Hyperglycemia or Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus: Dextrose may exacerbate hyperglycemia.
• Water Intoxication or Fluid Overload: In patients with renal failure, heart failure, or hepatic cirrhosis.
• Anuria: Lack of urine output increases risk of volume overload and electrolyte retention.
• Known Hypersensitivity: To dextrose or sodium chloride components.

Careful assessment of the patient’s clinical status and laboratory values is essential before initiating therapy with this solution.

Storage of 5% w/v DEXTROSE & 0.45% w/v SODIUM CHLORIDE INJECTION USP

To maintain the sterility and efficacy of the solution, observe the following storage guidelines:

• Temperature: Store at 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F); protect from excessive heat or freezing.
• Light Protection: Keep in the original overwrap until ready for use to protect from light degradation.
• Shelf Life: Observe the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not use if the solution is discolored, cloudy, or contains particulates.
• Bag Integrity: Inspect the plastic bag before use. Do not use if the bag is damaged or leaking.
• Post-Opening: Once opened, use immediately. Do not store partially used containers to avoid contamination.

Always follow hospital or pharmacy protocols for storage and disposal of intravenous solutions.