Dextrose 5% Pgbk 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 nutrient replacement, carbohydrate
Pharmacologic Class
Monosaccharide, caloric agent
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 (glucose) in water given through a vein. It's used to provide your body with fluids and energy (calories) when you can't eat or drink enough, or to help correct low blood sugar.
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and carefully read all accompanying information. Adhere to the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare team. This medication is administered intravenously over a specified period.
For proper storage and disposal, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the best approach if you need to store this medication at home.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
For proper storage and disposal, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the best approach if you need to store this medication at home.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor promptly to receive guidance on the next steps to take.
Lifestyle & Tips
- This medication is administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting.
- Report any discomfort at the injection site (pain, swelling, redness) 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:
Highly variable based on patient's fluid, electrolyte, and caloric needs. Typically administered as a continuous intravenous infusion. For fluid maintenance, 5% Dextrose is often infused at rates of 40-125 mL/hour. For hypoglycemia, a bolus of 25-50 mL of 50% Dextrose is common, followed by continuous infusion of lower concentrations if needed.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
fluid_maintenance:
Variable, e.g., 40-125 mL/hour of D5W
hypoglycemia:
Not typically used as a bolus for acute hypoglycemia in 5% concentration; higher concentrations (e.g., D50W) are used for bolus, followed by D5W or D10W for maintenance.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Highly individualized based on weight, gestational age, and metabolic needs. Initial glucose infusion rate (GIR) typically 4-6 mg/kg/min, adjusted to maintain normoglycemia. Dextrose 5% or 10% is common.
Infant:
Similar to neonatal, individualized based on weight and metabolic needs. Fluid maintenance rates often calculated by weight (e.g., 4-2-1 rule).
Child:
Individualized based on weight, fluid, and caloric needs. Fluid maintenance rates (e.g., 4-2-1 rule) apply. For hypoglycemia, 0.5-1 g/kg (2-4 mL/kg of D25W or 5-10 mL/kg of D10W) bolus, followed by continuous infusion.
Adolescent:
Similar to adult dosing, individualized based on fluid and caloric needs.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment for dextrose itself, but careful monitoring of fluid balance and electrolytes is crucial.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment for dextrose itself, but careful monitoring of fluid balance and electrolytes is crucial. Risk of fluid overload is increased.
Severe:
No specific dose adjustment for dextrose itself, but careful monitoring of fluid balance and electrolytes is crucial. Risk of fluid overload and electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hyponatremia) is high.
Dialysis:
Administer with caution, considering fluid removal during dialysis. Dextrose may be used to provide calories or treat hypoglycemia, but fluid volume must be precisely managed.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific dose adjustment.
Moderate:
No specific dose adjustment.
Severe:
No specific dose adjustment, but patients with severe hepatic impairment may have altered glucose metabolism and increased risk of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Monitor blood glucose closely.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Dextrose is a monosaccharide (glucose) that serves as a primary source of energy for cellular metabolism. When administered intravenously, it provides calories, helps prevent protein catabolism, and minimizes ketosis. It is readily metabolized by the body to carbon dioxide and water, releasing energy. It also has an osmotic diuretic effect.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
100%
Tmax:
Not applicable (IV administration, immediate availability)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (IV administration)
Distribution:
Vd:
Distributes throughout total body water
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (does not bind to plasma proteins)
CnssPenetration:
Yes (crosses blood-brain barrier via glucose transporters)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (continuously metabolized)
Clearance:
Rapidly cleared by cellular uptake and metabolism
ExcretionRoute:
Metabolized to CO2 (exhaled) and H2O (excreted renally or utilized)
Unchanged:
Less than 1% (if blood glucose levels are normal and not exceeding renal threshold)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (upon infusion)
PeakEffect:
Continuous (as long as infusion is maintained and metabolized)
DurationOfAction:
Dependent on infusion rate and metabolic needs
Confidence:
Medium
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 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. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult 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 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. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult 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 the hands, ankles, or feet (signs of fluid overload)
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Headache, confusion, or dizziness (may indicate electrolyte imbalance or fluid shifts)
- Excessive thirst or urination (signs of high blood sugar)
- Sweating, shakiness, or extreme hunger (signs of low blood sugar, though less likely with D5W unless insulin is co-administered)
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 symptoms you experienced.
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 symptoms you experienced.
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, consult your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration. Be sure to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
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 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 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, consult your doctor.
When used in newborns, this medication requires careful consideration. Be sure to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
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 this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
- Fluid overload (edema, pulmonary congestion, heart failure)
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hyponatremia due to dilutional effects)
- Osmotic diuresis leading to dehydration (if severe hyperglycemia occurs)
What to Do:
Discontinue infusion, administer insulin if hyperglycemia is severe, administer diuretics for fluid overload, correct electrolyte imbalances. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) or seek immediate medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Moderate Interactions
- Insulin (may require increased insulin dose in diabetic patients or cause hypoglycemia if insulin dose is not adjusted)
- Diuretics (especially loop diuretics, may alter electrolyte balance and fluid status, requiring careful monitoring)
- Corticosteroids (may increase blood glucose levels, requiring adjustment of dextrose or antidiabetic therapy)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Blood Glucose
Rationale: To establish baseline glucose levels 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 electrolyte status and identify any pre-existing imbalances that could be exacerbated by fluid administration.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)
Rationale: To assess kidney function and guide fluid management, especially in patients at risk for fluid overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Fluid Status (I&O, vital signs, physical exam)
Rationale: To assess hydration status and identify signs of fluid deficit or overload.
Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion
Routine Monitoring
Blood Glucose
Frequency: Every 4-6 hours initially, then daily or as clinically indicated
Target: 70-180 mg/dL (individualized based on patient condition)
Action Threshold: <70 mg/dL (hypoglycemia) or >180-200 mg/dL (hyperglycemia) requiring intervention
Serum Electrolytes (Na, K)
Frequency: Daily or as clinically indicated, especially in patients with renal impairment or receiving large volumes
Target: Na: 135-145 mEq/L, K: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L
Action Threshold: Significant deviations from normal range, requiring electrolyte replacement or fluid adjustment
Fluid Balance (Intake and Output)
Frequency: Every 8-24 hours, or more frequently in critically ill patients
Target: Appropriate balance based on clinical status
Action Threshold: Significant positive or negative fluid balance, indicating fluid overload or dehydration
Vital Signs (BP, HR, RR)
Frequency: Every 4-8 hours or as per institutional protocol
Target: Within patient's normal range
Action Threshold: Changes indicative of fluid overload (e.g., elevated BP, crackles) or dehydration (e.g., tachycardia, hypotension)
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of fluid overload (e.g., peripheral edema, pulmonary crackles, dyspnea, weight gain)
- Signs of hyperglycemia (e.g., polyuria, polydipsia, fatigue, blurred vision)
- Signs of hypoglycemia (e.g., sweating, tremors, confusion, dizziness, hunger)
- Signs of electrolyte imbalance (e.g., muscle weakness, cramps, confusion, arrhythmias)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Dextrose is commonly used in pregnancy for hydration, caloric support, and management of conditions like hyperemesis gravidarum or hypoglycemia. Generally considered safe when administered appropriately.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Generally safe and often used for hydration.
Second Trimester:
Generally safe and often used for hydration and caloric support.
Third Trimester:
Generally safe and often used, including during labor for energy. Careful monitoring of maternal glucose is important, especially in gestational diabetes.
Lactation
Dextrose is naturally present in breast milk and is considered compatible with breastfeeding. It is generally safe for use in lactating women.
Infant Risk:
L1 (Safest - no known risk to infant)
Pediatric Use
Use with extreme caution in neonates and infants due to immature renal function and glucose metabolism. Close monitoring of blood glucose and fluid balance is essential to prevent hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and fluid overload. Dosing is weight-based and highly individualized.
Geriatric Use
Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and pre-existing cardiovascular or renal conditions. Close monitoring of fluid status, electrolytes, and blood glucose is recommended.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Dextrose 5% in water (D5W) is isotonic in the bag but becomes hypotonic in the body as dextrose is metabolized, leading to free water distribution. This makes it useful for providing free water and treating hypernatremia.
- Not suitable for rapid volume expansion alone, as a significant portion of the fluid will shift intracellularly.
- Always check for compatibility when mixing with other medications, as dextrose can be incompatible with certain drugs.
- Monitor blood glucose levels frequently, especially in diabetic patients, critically ill patients, or those receiving high infusion rates, to prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
- Monitor for signs of fluid overload, particularly in patients with cardiac or renal dysfunction.
- Dextrose solutions provide minimal calories (e.g., 5% Dextrose provides 170 kcal/L), and are not sufficient for long-term nutritional support alone.
Alternative Therapies
- Normal Saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride) for volume expansion without caloric support
- Lactated Ringer's Solution for volume expansion and electrolyte replacement
- Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for comprehensive nutritional support
- Oral rehydration solutions for mild dehydration (if patient can tolerate oral intake)
- Glucagon (for severe hypoglycemia when IV access is not available)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Very low per 100ml bag
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 (covered by most insurance plans as a standard hospital supply)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
To ensure safe use, do not share your prescription medications with others, and never take medication that has been prescribed to someone else.
All medications should be stored in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
Unused or expired medications should be disposed of properly. Unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional or pharmacist, do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain. Instead, consult with your pharmacist to determine the best disposal method, as some communities may have designated drug take-back programs.
Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, it is crucial to 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 it was taken, as this will aid in providing appropriate treatment.
To ensure safe use, do not share your prescription medications with others, and never take medication that has been prescribed to someone else.
All medications should be stored in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
Unused or expired medications should be disposed of properly. Unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional or pharmacist, do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain. Instead, consult with your pharmacist to determine the best disposal method, as some communities may have designated drug take-back programs.
Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, it is crucial to 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 it was taken, as this will aid in providing appropriate treatment.