Dextrose and Sodium Chloride is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, isotonic or hypertonic solution for intravenous infusion. It is a fundamental combination used for fluid resuscitation, electrolyte replacement, and caloric supplementation. Dextrose provides a readily metabolizable source of carbohydrates and water, while Sodium Chloride provides essential sodium and chloride ions to maintain extracellular fluid volume, osmotic pressure, and acid-base balance. It is a cornerstone of intravenous therapy in hospital and clinical settings across India.
Adult: Highly individualized based on patient's age, weight, clinical condition, and fluid/electrolyte losses. Maintenance: Typically 1.5 - 3 L/day (approx. 30-35 mL/kg/day). Replacement: Based on deficit calculation. Common infusion rates: 50-200 mL/hr. Must be prescribed by volume, composition, and rate.
Note: For intravenous infusion only. Must be administered using sterile technique. Check the container for leaks, cloudiness, or particulate matter. Use a dedicated infusion set. The infusion rate must be controlled using an infusion pump, especially in pediatric, geriatric, and critical care patients. Do not connect flexible plastic containers in series. Do not use if seal is broken.
This combination exerts its effects through the physiological actions of its individual components. Dextrose, when metabolized, provides energy (approx. 3.4 kcal/g) and spares protein catabolism. The water of hydration provided with dextrose becomes part of the body's water pool. Sodium Chloride provides sodium, the primary cation of extracellular fluid, essential for maintaining extracellular fluid volume, osmotic pressure, and neuromuscular excitability. Chloride is the major extracellular anion, crucial for acid-base balance and the chloride shift in red blood cells. Together, they restore or maintain intravascular volume, correct electrolyte imbalances, and provide calories.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Considered generally safe for use when clearly needed. Dextrose crosses the placenta. Should be used during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Used routinely in labor and delivery suites.
Driving: Not applicable. Administered in a clinical setting.
| Corticosteroids (e.g., Dexamethasone, Prednisolone) | May cause sodium and fluid retention, exacerbating hypertension and edema. Corticosteroids also antagonize insulin, worsening hyperglycemia from dextrose. | Moderate |
| Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics | Dextrose infusion will raise blood glucose, requiring adjustment of antidiabetic drug doses. Insulin may be co-administered to control hyperglycemia. | Major |
| Loop Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide) | Concomitant use can lead to profound electrolyte disturbances (hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hypochloremia). | Moderate |
| Lithium | Sodium depletion reduces lithium excretion, increasing risk of lithium toxicity. Maintaining normal sodium levels is crucial. | Major |
| ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril) / ARBs | May impair renal sodium excretion, increasing risk of hypernatremia. | Moderate |
Same composition (Dextrose (NA) + Sodium Chloride (NA)), different brands: