Dextrose 10% Inj, 1000ml
It is used to treat low blood sugar. Some products are used to add fluid to the body after fluid loss, to mix with certain drugs that are given as an injection, or to add calories to a TPN.
Drug Class
Fluid and nutrient replacement
Pharmacologic Class
Carbohydrate, caloric agent
Pregnancy Category
Not available
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Dextrose 10% Injection is a sterile solution of sugar (glucose) in water given through a vein (intravenously). It provides your body with energy (calories) and helps maintain your fluid balance. It's often used when you can't eat or drink, or when your blood sugar is too low.
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and carefully read all accompanying information. Take this medication exactly as directed, and adhere to all guidelines provided. This drug is administered intravenously over a specified period.
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
In the event that you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the appropriate course of action.
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
In the event that you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the appropriate course of action.
Lifestyle & Tips
- This medication is given intravenously, so no specific lifestyle changes are typically required by the patient.
- Report any discomfort, pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site immediately.
- Report any unusual symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, confusion, or difficulty breathing.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 1000ml
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 250ml
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 100ml
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 50ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.2% Inj, 1000ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.45% Inj, 1000ml
- D5w/nacl 0.9% Inj, 1000ml
- Dextrose 50% Injection Ftv 25x50ml
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 70% Inj, 2000ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.45% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 50% Inj, 50ml
- Dextrose 10% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 10% Inj, 250ml
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 25ml
- Dextrose 5% Pgbk Inj, 100ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.3% Inj, 1000ml
- Dextrose 5% Inj, 150ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.45% Inj, 250ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.3% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 30% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 20% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 70% Inj, 500ml
- Dextrose 10% Inj, 1000ml
- Dextrose 5%/nacl 0.3% Inj, 250ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Variable, typically 100-250 mL/hour for maintenance or as vehicle for other medications. For hypoglycemia, rapid infusion may be used.
Dose Range:
100 - 250 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
maintenanceFluid:
100-250 mL/hour
hypoglycemia:
Rapid infusion (e.g., 20-50 mL over 1-3 minutes) followed by continuous infusion if needed.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Variable, typically 5-8 mg/kg/minute (equivalent to 720-1152 mL/kg/day of D10W). Careful glucose monitoring required.
Infant:
Variable, typically 5-8 mg/kg/minute. Careful glucose monitoring required.
Child:
Variable, typically 5-8 mg/kg/minute. Careful glucose monitoring required.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, often 100-250 mL/hour for maintenance or as vehicle.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment for dextrose itself; monitor fluid and electrolyte balance.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment for dextrose itself; monitor fluid and electrolyte balance closely to avoid fluid overload.
Severe:
No specific adjustment for dextrose itself; monitor fluid and electrolyte balance closely to avoid fluid overload and hyperkalemia (if potassium is added).
Dialysis:
Consider fluid removal during dialysis; monitor glucose and electrolytes. Dextrose may be used to prevent hypoglycemia during dialysis.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment.
Severe:
No specific adjustment; however, severe hepatic impairment may affect glucose metabolism, requiring closer glucose monitoring.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Dextrose is a monosaccharide that provides a source of calories and fluid. It is readily metabolized by the body's tissues to produce energy, carbon dioxide, and water. It helps to prevent protein catabolism, reduce ketosis, and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100%
Tmax:
Not applicable (immediate effect with IV infusion)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Distributes throughout total body water (approximately 0.6 L/kg)
ProteinBinding:
0%
CnssPenetration:
Yes
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not a typical drug half-life; depends on metabolic rate and glucose utilization.
Clearance:
Metabolic clearance; glucose is rapidly utilized by tissues.
ExcretionRoute:
Metabolized to carbon dioxide (exhaled) and water (excreted renally). Small amounts may be excreted renally if blood glucose levels exceed renal threshold.
Unchanged:
0% (under normal conditions)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate
PeakEffect:
Continuous during infusion
DurationOfAction:
Continuous during infusion; effects cease shortly after discontinuation as glucose is metabolized.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe dizziness or fainting
Signs of fluid and electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes
+ Confusion
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Fast or abnormal heartbeat
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Increased thirst
+ Seizures
+ Feeling very tired or weak
+ Decreased appetite
+ Unable to pass urine or changes in urine production
+ Dry mouth
+ Dry eyes
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Blue or gray discoloration of the skin, lips, nail beds, fingers, or toes
Fever or chills
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
* Pain and irritation at the injection site
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, discuss them with your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Severe dizziness or fainting
Signs of fluid and electrolyte problems, including:
+ Mood changes
+ Confusion
+ Muscle pain or weakness
+ Fast or abnormal heartbeat
+ Severe dizziness or fainting
+ Increased thirst
+ Seizures
+ Feeling very tired or weak
+ Decreased appetite
+ Unable to pass urine or changes in urine production
+ Dry mouth
+ Dry eyes
+ Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Blue or gray discoloration of the skin, lips, nail beds, fingers, or toes
Fever or chills
Shortness of breath, significant weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs
* Pain and irritation at the injection site
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, discuss them with your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Headache
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Swelling in ankles, feet, or hands
- Shortness of breath
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the IV site
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding in the brain or spine
+ Severe dehydration
+ Severe liver problems
+ Difficulty urinating
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your health problems with your doctor.
Additionally, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all the medications you are taking, including:
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including any symptoms that occurred.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding in the brain or spine
+ Severe dehydration
+ Severe liver problems
+ Difficulty urinating
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your health problems with your doctor.
Additionally, provide your doctor and pharmacist with a comprehensive list of all the medications you are taking, including:
Prescription medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications
Natural products
Vitamins
It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Discuss any concerns or questions you have with your doctor.
This medication may contain aluminum, which can increase the risk of aluminum toxicity with long-term use. This risk is particularly higher if you have kidney problems or if you are a premature infant. It is crucial to discuss this potential risk with your doctor.
In some cases, this medication may be mixed with parenteral nutrition (PN). However, PN has been associated with serious complications, including blood clots in the lungs, infections, high blood sugar, and liver problems. In rare instances, these complications can be fatal. If you have any questions or concerns about these potential risks, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration. Your doctor will need to weigh the potential benefits and risks, so it is essential to have an open discussion with them.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, it is vital to inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
This medication may contain aluminum, which can increase the risk of aluminum toxicity with long-term use. This risk is particularly higher if you have kidney problems or if you are a premature infant. It is crucial to discuss this potential risk with your doctor.
In some cases, this medication may be mixed with parenteral nutrition (PN). However, PN has been associated with serious complications, including blood clots in the lungs, infections, high blood sugar, and liver problems. In rare instances, these complications can be fatal. If you have any questions or concerns about these potential risks, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration. Your doctor will need to weigh the potential benefits and risks, so it is essential to have an open discussion with them.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, it is vital to inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Hyperosmolarity (high concentration of solutes in blood)
- Fluid overload (edema, pulmonary congestion)
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia)
- Glycosuria (sugar in urine)
- Osmotic diuresis (excessive urination)
What to Do:
Discontinue or reduce infusion rate. Administer insulin if hyperglycemia is severe. Correct fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Provide supportive care. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for specific guidance.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Insulin (exogenous): Dextrose infusion may require adjustment of insulin dosage in diabetic patients.
- Corticosteroids: May increase blood glucose levels, potentially requiring higher dextrose infusion rates or insulin.
- Diuretics (e.g., thiazides, loop diuretics): May alter fluid and electrolyte balance, requiring careful monitoring when co-administered with dextrose solutions.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Blood Glucose
Rationale: To establish baseline metabolic status and guide initial infusion rate, especially in diabetic or critically ill patients.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Serum Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, HCO3)
Rationale: To assess baseline fluid and electrolyte status and identify pre-existing imbalances.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney's ability to handle fluid and electrolytes.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Fluid Status (Weight, I&O, vital signs)
Rationale: To assess hydration status and risk of fluid overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Routine Monitoring
Blood Glucose
Frequency: Every 2-6 hours initially, then as clinically indicated (e.g., daily for stable patients, more frequently for unstable/diabetic patients).
Target: 70-180 mg/dL (varies by clinical setting)
Action Threshold: <70 mg/dL (hypoglycemia), >180-200 mg/dL (hyperglycemia)
Serum Electrolytes (Na, K)
Frequency: Daily or every 12-24 hours, more frequently if imbalances are present or anticipated.
Target: Na: 135-145 mEq/L, K: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Significant deviations from normal range (e.g., Na <130 or >150, K <3.0 or >5.5)
Fluid Balance (Intake & Output, Daily Weight)
Frequency: Every 8-24 hours, or more frequently in critically ill patients.
Target: Balanced I&O, stable weight (unless fluid shifts are desired)
Action Threshold: Significant positive or negative fluid balance, rapid weight gain/loss, signs of fluid overload/dehydration.
Signs of Fluid Overload (Edema, Dyspnea, Crackles)
Frequency: Regularly during nursing assessments.
Target: Absence of signs
Action Threshold: Presence of signs of fluid overload
Symptom Monitoring
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Headache
- Nausea/vomiting
- Confusion or altered mental status
- Weakness or fatigue
- Signs of fluid overload (swelling, shortness of breath, rapid weight gain)
- Signs of phlebitis or extravasation at infusion site (pain, redness, swelling)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Dextrose is a natural carbohydrate and is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy for fluid and calorie replacement when clinically indicated. Careful monitoring of maternal glucose levels is important, especially in diabetic or gestational diabetic patients.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Second Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Third Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Lactation
Dextrose is a natural component of breast milk and is generally considered safe for use in lactating women. It is not expected to cause adverse effects in breastfed infants.
Infant Risk:
Low (L1)
Pediatric Use
Used widely in pediatric patients for fluid, electrolyte, and caloric support. Neonates and infants are particularly susceptible to hypo- or hyperglycemia, requiring very careful monitoring of blood glucose levels and precise infusion rates. Fluid overload is also a significant risk in this population.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may be more susceptible to fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and hyperglycemia due to age-related changes in renal, cardiac, and metabolic function. Careful monitoring of fluid status, electrolytes, and blood glucose is essential.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Dextrose 10% is hypertonic (340 mOsm/L) and should be administered via a central vein if possible, especially for prolonged infusions, to minimize the risk of phlebitis and vein irritation. Peripheral administration is generally acceptable for short-term use or lower rates.
- Always monitor blood glucose levels closely, especially in diabetic patients, critically ill patients, or neonates/infants, to prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
- Monitor fluid balance (I&O, daily weights) and signs of fluid overload, particularly in patients with cardiac or renal impairment.
- Dextrose solutions provide calories but are not a complete nutritional source; prolonged use requires additional nutritional support (e.g., amino acids, lipids, vitamins, minerals).
- Dextrose solutions are often used as a vehicle for administering other intravenous medications.
Alternative Therapies
- Oral glucose (for conscious patients with hypoglycemia)
- Glucagon (for severe hypoglycemia when IV access is not available)
- Other intravenous fluids (e.g., Normal Saline, Lactated Ringer's) for hydration without significant caloric contribution.
- Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for complete nutritional support.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 1000ml bag
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (Generic)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed to someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly; do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, which your pharmacist can provide. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the quantity, and the time of ingestion.