1. Clinical Overview
A sterile, non-pyrogenic, isotonic solution for intravenous administration. It provides a source of free water and calories (dextrose) and essential electrolytes (sodium and chloride) to maintain osmotic equilibrium and extracellular fluid volume. The 0.91mg of Sodium Chloride per 5gm Dextrose is a trace additive, not a significant source of electrolyte replacement. The primary purpose of this specific composition is as a diluent or vehicle for reconstitution and administration of other injectable drugs, ensuring compatibility and stability.
| Onset | Duration | Bioavailability |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate upon intravenous administration. | Duration is variable and depends on the rate of infusion, metabolic demand, and renal function. The dextrose is metabolized within minutes to hours. | 100% (Intravenous route). |
2. Mechanism of Action
Dextrose provides a readily metabolizable source of calories and spares body protein and nitrogen loss. It also provides free water for hydration. The trace amount of Sodium Chloride helps maintain the isotonicity of the solution, preventing hemolysis when administered intravenously, and provides minimal essential electrolytes.
3. Indications & Uses
- As a sterile diluent for reconstitution of parenteral drugs prior to IV infusion.
- Source of free water and minimal calories in patients requiring IV fluid therapy where electrolyte supplementation is not primarily needed.
- Vehicle for administration of compatible IV medications.
4. Dosage & Administration
Adult Dosage: Dosage is highly individualized based on patient's fluid needs, caloric requirements, and the drug being diluted. Typical infusion rates for hydration range from 50-200 mL/hour. As a diluent, volume is dictated by the drug manufacturer's instructions.
Administration: For IV use only. Use aseptic technique. Check for clarity, leaks, and particulate matter before use. Use a sterile, non-pyrogenic administration set. Do not connect in series with other containers. Do not use if seal is broken. Infusion rate must be controlled. Do not administer simultaneously with blood through the same infusion set due to risk of pseudoagglutination.
5. Side Effects
Common side effects may include:
- Fluid overload (if infused too rapidly).
- Hyperglycemia, glycosuria.
- Local reactions: pain, irritation, or thrombophlebitis at injection site.
6. Drug Interactions
| Drug | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Insulin or Oral Hypoglycemics | Dextrose infusion may antagonize hypoglycemic effect, requiring dose adjustment. | Major |
| Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone, Dexamethasone) | May exacerbate hyperglycemic effect of dextrose. | Moderate |
| Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide) | Altered electrolyte excretion; monitor potassium and sodium. | Moderate |
| Blood Products | Physical incompatibility; do not administer through same IV line. | Major |
7. Patient Counselling
- Inform healthcare provider of any history of diabetes, heart, kidney, or liver disease.
- Report any sudden weight gain, swelling (edema), shortness of breath, or headache during infusion.
- Do not adjust the infusion rate yourself.
8. Toxicology & Storage
Overdose: Symptoms of fluid/solute overload: headache, restlessness, confusion, tachycardia, hypertension, pulmonary rales (edema), hyperglycemia, hypernatremia, metabolic acidosis, hypervolemic hypernatremia.
Storage: Store at room temperature (not exceeding 30°C). Protect from freezing and excessive heat. Keep in outer carton to protect from light. Do not use if the container is damaged, leaking, or the solution is cloudy or contains particles. For single use only. Discard any unused portion.