glycine irrigation 1.5% infusion - Glycine (1.5% w/v) medicine

Glycine Irrigation 1.5%: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Denis Chem Lab Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for use as an irrigation fluid in urological procedures.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe headache or confusion during or after the procedure
  • Visual disturbances such as blurred vision or blindness
  • Seizures or loss of consciousness
  • Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe nausea or vomiting

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is glycine irrigation 1.5% infusion used for?

Glycine irrigation 1.5% is a sterile solution used by surgeons during urological procedures like TURP to keep the surgical area clear and distended. It is not for self-administration and is given only in a hospital setting.

  • Generic Name: Glycine (1.5% w/v)
  • Manufacturer: Denis Chem Lab Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 glycine irrigation 1.5% infusion के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा ग्लाइसिन 1.5% इरिगेशन सोल्यूशन है, जिसका उपयोग सर्जरी के दौरान किया जाता है, खासकर प्रोस्टेट या मूत्राशय की सर्जरी में। यह घोल सर्जन को साफ दिखने में मदद करता है और खून व ऊतकों को बहाकर बाहर निकालता है। यह केवल अस्पताल में डॉक्टर या नर्स द्वारा ही दिया जाता है। मरीज इसे खुद से नहीं ले सकते।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में तरल पदार्थ का असंतुलन, कम सोडियम (हाइपोनेट्रेमिया), मतली, उल्टी और दृष्टि में बदलाव शामिल हैं। गंभीर मामलों में दौरे, बेहोशी, हृदय की धड़कन में गड़बड़ी और मस्तिष्क में सूजन हो सकती है। इसलिए सर्जरी के दौरान मरीज की निगरानी जरूरी है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल अस्पताल में प्रशिक्षित डॉक्टरों द्वारा ही दी जानी चाहिए। मरीज को इसका सेवन खुद से नहीं करना चाहिए। सर्जरी के दौरान मरीज के इलेक्ट्रोलाइट्स और तरल पदार्थ की मात्रा की निगरानी की जानी चाहिए। अगर कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर को बताएं।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 glycine irrigation 1.5% infusion Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)","description":"Used as an irrigation fluid to distend the bladder and flush away blood and tissue during TURP, improving visibility for the surgeon.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT)","description":"Provides continuous irrigation during bladder tumor resection to maintain clear vision and remove debris.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Other urological procedures","description":"May be used for irrigation during other endoscopic urological procedures such as cystoscopy or ureteroscopy when a non-hemolytic irrigant is required.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Gynecological procedures","description":"Occasionally used for irrigation during hysteroscopy or other gynecological endoscopic procedures.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Orthopedic procedures","description":"May be used for joint irrigation during arthroscopy, although normal saline is more commonly used.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Wound irrigation","description":"Sometimes used off-label for wound irrigation in surgical settings, but normal saline is preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Chemical pleurodesis","description":"Rarely used off-label for pleurodesis, but this is not a standard practice.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Not applicable; used as an irrigation fluid during urological procedures.

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Glycine (1.5% w/v)
Brand Nameglycine irrigation 1.5% infusion
ManufacturerDenis Chem Lab Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassBLOOD RELATED
Action ClassAmino acids
Route of AdministrationParenteral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C). Do not freeze. Keep in original container. Protect from direct sunlight. Do not use if solution is cloudy or contains particles.
Shelf LifeNot established from the available information. Refer to the manufacturer's labeling for the specific shelf life of the product.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Use the shortest possible irrigation time to minimize fluid absorption.
2
Monitor serum sodium levels before, during, and after the procedure.
3
Be alert for signs of glycine toxicity such as visual disturbances or confusion.
4
Ensure the solution is clear and the container is intact before use.
5
Use aseptic technique to prevent infection.
6
Consider alternative irrigants in patients with severe cardiac or renal disease.
7
Document the volume of irrigation fluid used and the volume returned.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Undergoing TURP or TURBT
This medicine is commonly used during these procedures.
Likely Use
❌
Joint pain
This medicine is not used for pain relief.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionGlycine is absorbed systemically when the irrigation solution enters the bloodstream through open vessels or the surgical site. The extent of absorption depends on the duration of the procedure, the pressure of irrigation, and the vascularity of the surgical area. In TURP, absorption can range from negligible to several liters, especially if the procedure is lengthy or if there is significant bleeding. The solution is not intended for oral or intravenous administration as a therapeutic agent.
DistributionOnce absorbed, glycine distributes into the extracellular fluid and is taken up by tissues, particularly the liver and kidneys. It can cross the blood-brain barrier and may affect the central nervous system. The volume of distribution is not well established for this specific use, but glycine is a small molecule that distributes widely in body water.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismGlycine is metabolized primarily in the liver and kidneys. It undergoes oxidative deamination to glyoxylate, which is further metabolized to oxalate, formate, and carbon dioxide. It can also be converted to serine and other amino acids. The metabolism of glycine is rapid, but in cases of excessive absorption, the metabolic pathways can become saturated, leading to accumulation of glycine and ammonia.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionGlycine and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Some glycine may be excreted unchanged. The excretion rate depends on renal function. In patients with renal impairment, excretion may be prolonged, increasing the risk of toxicity.
BioavailabilityNot applicable, as this medicine is not intended for systemic administration. When absorbed during irrigation, the bioavailability is variable and depends on the extent of absorption.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action is immediate for the irrigation effect, as the solution provides distension and flushing upon instillation. Systemic effects, if any, occur gradually as absorption takes place during the procedure.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is limited to the duration of the irrigation procedure. Systemic effects may persist until the absorbed glycine is metabolized and excreted, which can take several hours depending on the amount absorbed and renal function.

How It Works

Glycine irrigation solution works primarily through mechanical means. It is a hypotonic, non-ionic solution that provides a clear medium for irrigation and distension during endoscopic procedures. Unlike ionic solutions such as normal saline, glycine 1.5% is hypotonic and does not conduct electricity, making it suitable for use with electrocautery during procedures like TURP. When absorbed into the bloodstream, glycine is metabolized in the liver and kidneys. However, excessive absorption can lead to dilutional hyponatremia and accumulation of glycine and its metabolites, which can cause neurological and visual disturbances. The solution itself does not have pharmacological receptors; its effects are primarily due to fluid shifts and metabolic byproducts.

Mechanism Steps

1
Irrigation and distension: The solution is instilled into the surgical area to distend the cavity and provide a clear view for the surgeon.
2
Mechanical flushing: Continuous flow washes away blood, tissue fragments, and debris, maintaining visibility.
3
Absorption into systemic circulation: Some of the solution may be absorbed through open blood vessels or the surgical site, especially if the procedure is prolonged or if there is significant bleeding.
4
Metabolism of glycine: Absorbed glycine is metabolized in the liver and kidneys via glycine cleavage system and other pathways, producing ammonia and other metabolites.
5
Fluid and electrolyte shifts: The hypotonic solution can dilute serum sodium, leading to hyponatremia. The body attempts to compensate through renal excretion and fluid shifts.
6
Potential toxicity: If absorption is excessive, accumulation of glycine and its metabolites can cause neurological and visual disturbances, and severe hyponatremia can lead to cerebral edema and seizures.

💡 How to Take glycine irrigation 1.5% infusion

Strength: Glycine 1.5% w/v irrigation solution

1This medicine is administered by a healthcare professional only.
2It is used as an irrigation fluid during surgical procedures.
3The solution is instilled into the surgical area using sterile equipment.
4The flow rate and volume are controlled by the surgeon.
5Patients do not self-administer this medicine.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe dosage of this medicine is not expressed in milligrams or milliliters for self-administration. It is used as an irrigation fluid during surgical procedures. The volume and rate of irrigation are determined by the surgeon based on the procedure, duration, and patient factors. Typically, the solution is instilled continuously to maintain clear visibility. The maximum volume used depends on the procedure and should be minimized to reduce the risk of fluid absorption. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the procedure, patient's fluid and electrolyte status, and renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician or pediatric urologist for use in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more susceptible to fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Use with caution and monitor closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and cardiac function.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Monitor renal function and electrolytes closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Monitor liver function and ammonia levels. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Maximum Daily DoseNot applicable, as this medicine is used as an irrigation fluid during a procedure. The maximum volume should be determined by the clinician based on the procedure and patient factors.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Not applicable
→ This medicine is given by healthcare professionals during a procedure; there is no missed dose scenario for patients.
💡 If you have questions about your procedure, consult your doctor.

⚠️ Side Effects of glycine irrigation 1.5% infusion

✅ Common Side Effects

Transient fluid overload (Common (5-10%))
Monitor fluid balance; may resolve spontaneously or require diuretics.
Dilutional hyponatremia (Common (5-10%))
Monitor serum sodium; may require sodium replacement.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves after procedure; antiemetics if needed.
Vomiting (Uncommon (1-5%))
Supportive care; antiemetics if persistent.
Visual disturbances (Uncommon (1-5%))
Report to surgeon; may indicate glycine toxicity.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe hyponatremia (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop irrigation immediately; correct sodium levels under medical supervision.
Cerebral edema (Rare (<0.1%))
Emergency medical intervention; may require hypertonic saline and intensive care.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop procedure; administer anticonvulsants and correct electrolytes.
Coma (Rare (<0.1%))
Immediate intensive care; manage airway and electrolytes.
Cardiac arrhythmias (Rare (<0.1%))
Monitor ECG; correct electrolyte imbalances.
Hyperammonemia (Rare (<0.1%))
Monitor ammonia levels; may require treatment with lactulose or other agents.
Transient blindness (Rare (<0.1%))
Usually reversible; stop irrigation and monitor vision.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Anaphylaxis
Emergency treatment with epinephrine and supportive care.
Hemolysis
Stop irrigation; monitor hemoglobin and renal function.
Renal failure
Monitor renal function; may require dialysis.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Diuretics Major
Lithium Major
ADH analogs Major
Corticosteroids Moderate
NSAIDs Moderate
Antihypertensives Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Diuretics
  • Lithium
  • Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) analogs

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Corticosteroids
  • NSAIDs

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol consumption is not relevant during the use of this medicine, as it is administered in a clinical setting. However, patients should avoid alcohol before surgery as per standard preoperative instructions.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to glycine","Anuria","Severe hyponatremia","Severe cardiac failure","Severe renal impairment","Use in procedures where electrolyte-free irrigation is contraindicated"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For professional use only; not for self-administration.","Use with caution in patients with cardiac, renal, or hepatic impairment.","Monitor fluid and electrolyte balance closely during and after procedure.","Avoid prolonged irrigation to reduce risk of fluid absorption.","Do not use if solution is not clear or container is damaged.","Use aseptic technique to prevent infection.","Discontinue if signs of hyponatremia or glycine toxicity occur.","Not for intravenous administration as a therapeutic agent."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Not established from the available information. Glycine is a naturally occurring amino acid and is likely safe during lactation, but systemic absorption during irrigation is not expected to affect breast milk. Consult a healthcare provider.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose is not applicable in the traditional sense, as this medicine is used as an irrigation fluid. However, excessive absorption can lead to fluid overload, hyponatremia, and glycine toxicity. Management includes stopping the irrigation immediately, correcting electrolyte imbalances with hypertonic saline if needed, supporting vital functions, and considering dialysis in severe cases. Monitor serum sodium, ammonia, and neurological status. Treatment should be in an intensive care setting.

⏰ Missed Dose

Not applicable, as this medicine is administered by healthcare professionals during a procedure. There is no prescribed dosing schedule for self-administration.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine must only be used by qualified healthcare professionals in a properly equipped medical facility. It is not for self-administration. The irrigation fluid should be administered using sterile technique and appropriate equipment. Vital signs, serum electrolytes, and fluid balance should be monitored before, during, and after the procedure. The duration of irrigation should be kept as short as possible to minimize the risk of fluid absorption and electrolyte disturbances. If signs of hyponatremia or glycine toxicity occur, the procedure should be stopped immediately and appropriate treatment initiated. The solution should be inspected for particles and discoloration before use. Do not use if the container is damaged or the solution is not clear. Keep out of reach of children. Discard any unused portion.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are at higher risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Close monitoring is required during and after the procedure.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before any procedure. The use of this medicine during pregnancy should be based on clinical judgment, as data are limited.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, monitor for signs of fluid overload, electrolyte imbalance, and infection. Follow your doctor's instructions for wound care and activity restrictions.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Not applicable. This medicine is not used in dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Follow your doctor's instructions for recovery after surgery.
🥗
Stay hydrated unless advised otherwise.
😴
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few weeks after surgery.
💧
Take prescribed medications as directed.
🧘
Attend all follow-up appointments.
🌞
Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

After a procedure using this medicine, avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for the period recommended by your doctor, usually a few weeks. Light walking is encouraged to prevent blood clots.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Stay well hydrated unless your doctor restricts fluids.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine immediately after surgery.
Include fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

You will need to take time off work for the procedure and recovery. Driving and operating machinery should be avoided for at least 24-48 hours after anesthesia. Follow your doctor's advice on when to resume normal activities.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

This medicine is stopped by the healthcare professional at the end of the procedure. Patients do not control when to stop it. If you experience any unusual symptoms after the procedure, consult your doctor immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

There are no known long-term effects from a single use of glycine irrigation during surgery. However, if complications such as severe hyponatremia occur, they may have lasting neurological consequences. Patients should follow up with their doctor after the procedure to monitor recovery.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Normal saline irrigation

An isotonic solution that can be used for irrigation but is not suitable for electrocautery.

Evidence: Well-established
Mannitol irrigation

An osmotic diuretic used as an alternative irrigant in some procedures.

Evidence: Established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Not applicable. This medicine does not interact with vaccines.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not freeze

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Protect from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not use if solution is cloudy or contains particles

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

This medicine is administered only in a hospital setting and is not carried by patients. If you are traveling for a procedure that requires this medicine, ensure that your medical records and prescriptions are with you. The solution should be stored at room temperature and protected from sunlight. It is not for personal use during travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 68-year-old man undergoing TURP for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
During the procedure, glycine 1.5% irrigation was used to maintain visibility. The surgery went smoothly, but post-operatively, the patient developed mild hyponatremia, which was corrected with intravenous fluids. He recovered well and was discharged after two days.
💡 Lesson: Close monitoring of electrolytes after TURP with glycine irrigation is essential to detect and manage hyponatremia early.
👤 A 55-year-old woman undergoing hysteroscopy for fibroid removal.
Glycine irrigation was used during the procedure. The surgery was uneventful, but the patient experienced transient visual disturbances immediately after. The irrigation was stopped, and her symptoms resolved within an hour. Her serum sodium was slightly low but normalized with conservative management.
💡 Lesson: Transient visual disturbances can occur due to glycine absorption; stopping irrigation promptly usually resolves symptoms.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: What is glycine irrigation 1.5% used for?

A: It is used as an irrigation fluid during urological surgeries like TURP to keep the surgical area clear and distended.

Q: Is glycine irrigation safe?

A: It is generally safe when used by trained professionals with proper monitoring. However, it can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances if absorbed excessively.

Q: Can I take glycine irrigation at home?

A: No, it is only administered in a hospital setting by healthcare professionals.

Q: What are the side effects of glycine irrigation?

A: Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and electrolyte imbalances. Serious effects are rare but can include seizures and coma.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Is glycine irrigation safe for my kidneys?
  • What are the risks of fluid absorption during surgery?
  • How is hyponatremia treated after TURP?
  • Can I have TURP if I have heart problems?
  • What should I expect after the procedure?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Glycine irrigation is a medicine you can take at home.
    Fact: It is a sterile solution used only by healthcare professionals during surgical procedures.
  • Myth: Glycine irrigation is the same as glycine supplements.
    Fact: This is a sterile irrigation solution for surgical use, not a dietary supplement.
  • Myth: Glycine irrigation has no side effects.
    Fact: It can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalances if absorbed excessively.

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Glycine 1.5% irrigation","type":"Non-ionic, hypotonic","use":"TURP, TURBT","key_risk":"Hyponatremia, glycine toxicity"},{"medicine":"Normal saline irrigation","type":"Ionic, isotonic","use":"General irrigation","key_risk":"Fluid overload, hyperchloremia"},{"medicine":"Mannitol irrigation","type":"Osmotic diuretic","use":"TURP","key_risk":"Dehydration, hypernatremia"}]

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