Dextrose 5% Inj, 150ml
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, caloric agent
Pharmacologic Class
Carbohydrate, parenteral nutrition component
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Dextrose 5% Injection is a sterile solution of sugar (dextrose) and water given directly into a vein (intravenously). It's used to provide your body with fluid and some energy (calories), or as a way to give you other medicines.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. It is essential to follow the instructions carefully. This medication is administered intravenously over a specified period.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. It is essential to follow the instructions carefully. This medication is administered intravenously over a specified period.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Maintain good hydration as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Report any unusual symptoms or discomfort during the infusion.
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 individualized based on fluid and caloric needs, typically 1.5 to 2.5 L/day for maintenance, or as a vehicle for other medications.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
maintenance_fluid:
Typically 40-80 mL/hour (1-2 L/day) for maintenance, adjusted based on patient's fluid and electrolyte status.
vehicle_for_medications:
Administered at a rate compatible with the infused medication and patient tolerance.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Highly individualized based on weight, age, and metabolic needs. Typically 60-100 mL/kg/day, adjusted for glucose tolerance and fluid balance.
Infant:
Highly individualized based on weight, age, and metabolic needs. Typically 100-150 mL/kg/day, adjusted for glucose tolerance and fluid balance.
Child:
Highly individualized based on weight, age, and metabolic needs. Typically 50-100 mL/kg/day, adjusted for glucose tolerance and fluid balance.
Adolescent:
Highly individualized based on weight, age, and metabolic needs. Similar to adult dosing, typically 1.5 to 2.5 L/day, adjusted for glucose tolerance and fluid balance.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment, but monitor fluid balance and electrolytes closely.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment, but monitor fluid balance and electrolytes closely to prevent fluid overload and electrolyte disturbances.
Severe:
Use with extreme caution; significant risk of fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances. Monitor fluid balance, electrolytes, and glucose frequently. May require reduced rates or volumes.
Dialysis:
Use with caution. Fluid and electrolyte balance must be meticulously managed. May be used as a vehicle for medications, but total fluid intake must be accounted for.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment.
Severe:
No specific dose adjustment, but monitor fluid balance and glucose levels, especially in patients with ascites or encephalopathy.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Dextrose is a monosaccharide that provides a source of calories and fluid. It is readily metabolized by the body to carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy. It helps to restore blood glucose levels in hypoglycemia and serves as a vehicle for the intravenous administration of other medications.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100%
Tmax:
Not applicable (IV administration, immediate effect)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (IV administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Distributes throughout total body water (approximately 0.6 L/kg)
ProteinBinding:
0%
CnssPenetration:
Yes
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (continuously metabolized)
Clearance:
Variable, depends on metabolic rate and glucose utilization
ExcretionRoute:
Metabolized to CO2 (exhaled) and H2O (excreted renally or utilized)
Unchanged:
Negligible
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate
PeakEffect:
Dependent on infusion rate and metabolic needs
DurationOfAction:
Dependent on infusion rate and metabolic needs; rapidly utilized by tissues
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency 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 any side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency 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 any side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact 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 or urination
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Headache or confusion
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Sweating or shakiness
- Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- 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 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 in conjunction with all 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 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 in conjunction with all 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. 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, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration and monitoring. Consult with your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
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 weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both 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, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration and monitoring. Consult with your doctor to discuss the potential risks and benefits.
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 weigh the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar): increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision.
- Fluid overload: swelling (edema), shortness of breath, crackles in lungs, elevated blood pressure.
- Electrolyte imbalances: hyponatremia (low sodium) due to dilution, hypokalemia (low potassium) due to intracellular shift with glucose metabolism.
What to Do:
Management involves discontinuing or reducing the infusion rate, administering insulin for hyperglycemia, administering diuretics for fluid overload, and correcting electrolyte imbalances. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. For non-emergencies, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Corticosteroids (may increase blood glucose levels)
- Insulin (dose may need adjustment if dextrose is used as a caloric source)
Incompatibilities Interactions
- Many drugs are incompatible with dextrose solutions; always check compatibility before mixing or co-administering.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Serum Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl)
Rationale: To establish baseline fluid and electrolyte status and identify pre-existing imbalances.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Blood Glucose
Rationale: To establish baseline glucose levels and assess risk of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney function, which impacts fluid and electrolyte excretion.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Fluid Status (Weight, I&O, Vital Signs)
Rationale: To assess baseline hydration status and risk of fluid overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Blood Glucose
Frequency: Every 4-6 hours initially, then daily or as clinically indicated
Target: 70-180 mg/dL (or as per institutional protocol)
Action Threshold: >180 mg/dL (consider insulin, reduce rate), <70 mg/dL (consider bolus, increase rate)
Serum Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl)
Frequency: Daily or every 12-24 hours, then less frequently if stable
Target: Within normal limits
Action Threshold: Abnormal values (e.g., hyponatremia, hypokalemia) requiring intervention
Fluid Balance (Intake & Output, Daily Weight)
Frequency: Every 8-24 hours
Target: Balanced I&O, stable weight
Action Threshold: Significant positive or negative fluid balance, rapid weight gain/loss
Signs of Fluid Overload (Edema, Dyspnea, Crackles)
Frequency: Regularly during nursing assessments
Target: Absence of signs
Action Threshold: Presence of signs (consider reducing rate, diuretics)
Symptom Monitoring
- Thirst
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue (signs of hyperglycemia)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Sweating
- Tremors (signs of hypoglycemia)
- Swelling (edema)
- Shortness of breath
- Cough (signs of fluid overload)
- Muscle weakness
- Cramps (signs of electrolyte imbalance)
- Pain or swelling at injection site
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when clinically indicated. Monitor maternal glucose and fluid balance closely.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Second Trimester:
No known specific risks.
Third Trimester:
No known specific risks, but monitor for fluid overload and glucose intolerance, especially in gestational diabetes.
Lactation
Considered safe for use during lactation. Dextrose is a natural component of the body and is not expected to harm the nursing infant.
Infant Risk:
Low risk (L1)
Pediatric Use
Use with caution, especially in neonates and infants, due to increased risk of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and hyperglycemia. Close monitoring of blood glucose, electrolytes, and fluid balance is essential. Avoid rapid infusion rates.
Geriatric Use
Use with caution due to increased risk of fluid overload, electrolyte disturbances (especially hyponatremia), 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 an isotonic solution in the bag, but becomes physiologically hypotonic once dextrose is metabolized, leading to free water distribution.
- Not suitable for rapid volume expansion alone due to its hypotonic effect after metabolism.
- Always check for drug compatibility before mixing any medications with Dextrose 5% Injection.
- Monitor blood glucose levels frequently, especially in diabetic patients, critically ill patients, or those receiving high infusion rates.
- Monitor for signs of fluid overload, particularly in patients with cardiac, renal, or hepatic impairment.
- Risk of hyponatremia, especially in pediatric patients, post-operative patients, or those with SIADH, due to free water administration.
Alternative Therapies
- 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Normal Saline) for isotonic fluid replacement
- Lactated Ringer's Solution for isotonic fluid and electrolyte replacement
- Other parenteral nutrition solutions (e.g., amino acid solutions, lipid emulsions) for more comprehensive nutritional support
- Oral rehydration solutions for mild dehydration (if patient can tolerate oral intake)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$0.50 - $5.00 per 150ml bag
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (usually covered by most insurance plans as a standard medical supply)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed for 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. Unless instructed otherwise, do not flush medications down the toilet or drain. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult your pharmacist, as they can provide guidance or inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist. 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 quantity, and the time it occurred, as this will aid in receiving appropriate treatment.