Dextrose 5% Inj, 100ml
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 Electrolyte Replenisher; Caloric Agent
Pharmacologic Class
Carbohydrate; Monosaccharide
Pregnancy Category
Not available (Generally considered safe for fluid and caloric replacement when clinically indicated, with careful monitoring)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Dextrose 5% Injection is a sterile solution of sugar (glucose) in water given through a vein (intravenously). It provides your body with fluid and a source of energy (calories). It's often used to help keep you hydrated, provide some nutrition, or to dilute other medicines that need to be given intravenously.
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and carefully read all accompanying information. Administer the medication as directed, which typically involves intravenous infusion over a specified period.
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the appropriate storage method.
In the event that you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the appropriate storage method.
In the event that you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
Lifestyle & Tips
- This medication is administered by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
- Report any discomfort or pain at the injection site immediately.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of diabetes, kidney problems, heart problems, or any other medical conditions.
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:
Highly variable; typically administered intravenously at a rate determined by patient's fluid, electrolyte, and caloric needs. For 100ml, often used as a diluent for other medications or for small volume fluid/glucose replacement.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
fluid_replacement:
Variable, based on hydration status and caloric needs, often 50-200 mL/hour as part of total fluid intake.
medication_diluent:
As per specific medication's reconstitution/dilution instructions.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Variable; typically 4-8 mg/kg/min, adjusted based on blood glucose levels and fluid requirements. Careful monitoring is essential.
Infant:
Variable; typically 4-8 mg/kg/min, adjusted based on blood glucose levels and fluid requirements. Careful monitoring is essential.
Child:
Variable; typically 4-8 mg/kg/min, adjusted based on blood glucose levels and fluid requirements. Careful monitoring is essential.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, adjusted based on blood glucose levels and fluid requirements.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment for dextrose itself, but monitor fluid and electrolyte balance closely.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment for dextrose itself, but monitor fluid and electrolyte balance closely due to increased risk of fluid overload.
Severe:
No specific adjustment for dextrose itself, but monitor fluid and electrolyte balance extremely closely due to high risk of fluid overload and electrolyte disturbances. May require lower infusion rates.
Dialysis:
Considerations for fluid removal during dialysis; monitor fluid balance and glucose levels carefully. Dextrose may be used to prevent hypoglycemia during dialysis.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment.
Severe:
No specific adjustment, but monitor blood glucose levels as severe hepatic impairment can affect glucose metabolism.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Dextrose is a monosaccharide (glucose) that provides a source of calories and free water. It is readily metabolized by the body's tissues, producing carbon dioxide and water, and releasing energy. It helps to prevent ketosis and protein catabolism, and can be used to treat hypoglycemia.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100% (intravenous administration)
Tmax:
Immediate (as it is directly infused into the bloodstream)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (IV administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Distributes throughout the total body water (approximately 0.6 L/kg)
ProteinBinding:
Negligible
CnssPenetration:
Yes (crosses blood-brain barrier via glucose transporters)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Variable, depends on metabolic rate and glucose utilization (rapidly metabolized)
Clearance:
Rapid, dependent on cellular uptake and metabolism
ExcretionRoute:
Metabolized to CO2 (exhaled) and H2O (renal excretion)
Unchanged:
Negligible (almost entirely metabolized)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate
PeakEffect:
Immediate (glucose levels rise rapidly)
DurationOfAction:
Variable, depends on infusion rate and patient's metabolic needs (rapidly utilized)
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. Many people may not experience any side effects or only minor 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. Many people may not experience any side effects or only minor 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:
- Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet (signs of fluid retention)
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Increased thirst or urination (signs of high blood sugar)
- Confusion, dizziness, or unusual weakness (signs of low blood sugar or electrolyte imbalance)
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection 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 passing urine
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions with this medication. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to discuss all of your:
Medications, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins
Health problems
with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine whether it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions. Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify 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 passing urine
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of all potential interactions with this medication. To ensure your safety, it is crucial to discuss all of your:
Medications, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins
Health problems
with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine whether it is safe to take this medication in combination with your other medications and health conditions. Do not initiate, discontinue, or modify 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. Be sure to 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 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 this, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration and monitoring. Your doctor will need to assess the potential benefits and risks of using this medication in this population.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, it is essential to inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication during this time to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
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 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 this, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration and monitoring. Your doctor will need to assess the potential benefits and risks of using this medication in this population.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, it is essential to inform your doctor. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of using this medication during this time to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Fluid overload (e.g., pulmonary edema, peripheral edema)
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Hyponatremia (low sodium levels due to free water excess)
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Acidosis
What to Do:
Discontinue infusion, administer diuretics for fluid overload, insulin for hyperglycemia, correct electrolyte imbalances. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) or seek immediate medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Insulin (pharmacodynamic interaction, insulin lowers blood glucose, dextrose raises it)
- Diuretics (especially loop diuretics, can affect electrolyte balance and fluid volume, requiring careful monitoring when co-administered with dextrose solutions)
- Corticosteroids (can increase blood glucose, potentially requiring higher dextrose doses or insulin)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Fluid and Electrolyte Status (e.g., Na, K, Cl, HCO3)
Rationale: To assess baseline hydration and electrolyte balance, crucial for safe IV fluid administration.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Blood Glucose
Rationale: To establish baseline glucose levels, especially in patients with diabetes or at risk of hyperglycemia/hypoglycemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney's ability to handle fluid and electrolytes.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Cardiac Status (e.g., signs of heart failure)
Rationale: To identify patients at risk of fluid overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Blood Glucose
Frequency: Every 4-6 hours initially, then as clinically indicated (e.g., daily, or less frequently if stable)
Target: 70-180 mg/dL (individualized based on patient condition)
Action Threshold: <70 mg/dL or >180 mg/dL (requires intervention)
Serum Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl)
Frequency: Daily or as clinically indicated, especially with large volumes or in at-risk patients
Target: Within normal limits (e.g., Na 135-145 mEq/L)
Action Threshold: Significant deviations from normal range (e.g., hyponatremia, hyperkalemia)
Fluid Balance (Intake/Output)
Frequency: Every 8-24 hours, or more frequently if critical
Target: Appropriate balance for patient's condition
Action Threshold: Significant positive or negative fluid balance, signs of fluid overload or dehydration
Vital Signs (BP, HR, RR)
Frequency: Regularly, as per institutional protocol
Target: Within normal limits for patient
Action Threshold: Changes indicative of fluid overload (e.g., elevated BP, crackles)
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of fluid overload (e.g., dyspnea, peripheral edema, crackles, jugular venous distension)
- Signs of hyponatremia (e.g., headache, nausea, confusion, seizures)
- Signs of hyperglycemia (e.g., polyuria, polydipsia, fatigue)
- Signs of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, tremor, confusion, dizziness)
- Local irritation or phlebitis at injection site
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Dextrose 5% Injection is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when clinically indicated for fluid and caloric replacement. However, careful monitoring of maternal glucose levels is important, especially in diabetic or gestational diabetic patients, to avoid hyperglycemia which can affect fetal development.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Generally low risk, but monitor glucose levels.
Second Trimester:
Generally low risk, but monitor glucose levels.
Third Trimester:
Generally low risk, but monitor glucose levels; excessive fluid administration can lead to fluid overload.
Lactation
Dextrose is a natural component of the body and is considered compatible with breastfeeding. It is unlikely to cause adverse effects in a breastfed infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk (L1)
Pediatric Use
Use with caution, especially in neonates and infants, due to immature renal function and glucose metabolism. Close monitoring of blood glucose, fluid balance, and electrolytes is crucial to prevent hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and hyponatremia. Infusion rates should be carefully calculated based on weight and metabolic needs.
Geriatric Use
Use with caution due to increased risk of fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and impaired glucose tolerance. Monitor fluid status, electrolytes, and blood glucose closely. Lower infusion rates may be necessary.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Dextrose 5% in water (D5W) is isotonic in the bag but becomes hypotonic in the body as dextrose is rapidly metabolized, leaving free water. This can lead to hyponatremia if administered in large volumes, especially in patients with impaired water excretion (e.g., SIADH, renal impairment).
- Often used as a diluent or 'piggyback' solution for intravenous administration of other medications.
- Provides minimal caloric support (170 calories per 1000 mL of D5W), primarily for fluid replacement and prevention of ketosis.
- Not suitable for sole maintenance fluid therapy due to lack of electrolytes.
- Avoid rapid infusion in patients with intracranial pressure or acute ischemic stroke, as it can worsen cerebral edema due to its hypotonic effect.
Alternative Therapies
- Normal Saline (0.9% NaCl) - for fluid and electrolyte replacement without calories
- Lactated Ringer's Solution - for fluid and electrolyte replacement with balanced electrolytes
- Parenteral Nutrition (TPN/PPN) - for comprehensive nutritional support
- Oral rehydration solutions - for mild dehydration (if patient can tolerate oral intake)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$1 - $5 per 100ml bag
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Generally covered by most insurance plans as it is a fundamental medical supply/medication.
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, do not share your medication with others, and never take someone else's medication. 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 medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time of ingestion.