Dextrose 70% Inj, 500ml

Manufacturer ICU MEDICAL Active Ingredient Dextrose Injection(DEKS trose) Pronunciation DEKS-trohs
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.
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Drug Class
Fluid, electrolyte, and nutrient replenisher
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Pharmacologic Class
Carbohydrate, hypertonic solution
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
Jan 1970
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Dextrose 70% Injection is a very concentrated sugar solution given directly into your vein. It is used to provide your body with energy, raise your blood sugar quickly if it's too low, or as a main part of your nutrition if you cannot eat normally. Because it's so concentrated, it's usually given slowly through a special IV line.
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How to Use This Medicine

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all accompanying information carefully. Take this medication exactly as directed, and be sure to follow all instructions provided. This drug is administered intravenously over a specified period of time.

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 appropriate course of action.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • This medication is given in a hospital or clinical setting. No specific lifestyle changes are required by the patient related to its administration, but underlying conditions requiring its use may necessitate dietary or activity modifications.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Highly individualized based on patient's metabolic needs, blood glucose levels, and fluid status. Often administered as a continuous intravenous infusion, typically as a component of parenteral nutrition or for severe, refractory hypoglycemia. Infusion rates must be carefully titrated.

Condition-Specific Dosing:

parenteralNutrition: As a component of total parenteral nutrition (TPN), infusion rates are determined by caloric requirements, glucose tolerance, and fluid balance, typically ranging from 4-7 mg/kg/min of glucose.
severeHypoglycemia: For severe hypoglycemia, Dextrose 50% is typically used for bolus. Dextrose 70% may be used for continuous infusion in refractory cases or as part of a TPN regimen.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Dosing is highly individualized and requires extreme caution due to immature glucose regulation. Typically initiated at 4-8 mg/kg/min of glucose, adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring. Risk of hyperglycemia and rebound hypoglycemia.
Infant: Dosing is highly individualized, typically 5-8 mg/kg/min of glucose, adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring.
Child: Dosing is highly individualized, typically 5-7 mg/kg/min of glucose, adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring.
Adolescent: Dosing is highly individualized, similar to adult dosing, adjusted based on blood glucose monitoring and metabolic needs.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: Adjustment needed: Monitor blood glucose and electrolytes closely. Adjust infusion rate based on glucose tolerance and fluid balance.
Moderate: Adjustment needed: Monitor blood glucose, electrolytes, and fluid balance closely. Increased risk of fluid overload and electrolyte disturbances. Adjust infusion rate cautiously.
Severe: Adjustment needed: Monitor blood glucose, electrolytes, and fluid balance closely. Significant risk of fluid overload, hyperkalemia, and other electrolyte imbalances. Use with extreme caution and adjust infusion rate significantly.
Dialysis: Considerations: Dextrose is dialyzable. Dosing should be carefully managed in consultation with nephrology, considering fluid removal during dialysis and potential for rapid glucose shifts. Monitor blood glucose and electrolytes frequently.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: Adjustment: Monitor blood glucose closely. Patients with hepatic impairment may have altered glucose metabolism.
Moderate: Adjustment: Monitor blood glucose closely. Increased risk of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Adjust infusion rate based on glucose tolerance.
Severe: Adjustment: Monitor blood glucose closely. Severe hepatic impairment can significantly impair glucose regulation. Use with extreme caution and adjust infusion rate based on frequent glucose monitoring.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Dextrose is a monosaccharide that provides a source of calories and water. It is readily metabolized by the body to produce energy, carbon dioxide, and water. It increases blood glucose levels, reduces protein catabolism, and promotes glycogen deposition in the liver and muscles.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: 100%
Tmax: Rapid (minutes)
FoodEffect: Not applicable (intravenous administration)

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately total body water (0.6 L/kg)
ProteinBinding: 0%
CnssPenetration: Yes

Elimination:

HalfLife: Variable, depends on metabolic rate and glucose utilization
Clearance: Rapidly cleared from blood by cellular uptake and metabolism
ExcretionRoute: Primarily metabolized to CO2 and H2O; small amounts excreted renally if blood glucose exceeds renal threshold
Unchanged: <1% (typically)
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Immediate
PeakEffect: Minutes (depending on infusion rate)
DurationOfAction: Dependent on infusion rate and patient's metabolic state

Safety & Warnings

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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

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 medical help right away:

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 may not experience any side effects or only mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor for advice.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. 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.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Increased thirst or urination, dry mouth (signs of high blood sugar)
  • Swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands; shortness of breath (signs of fluid overload)
  • Unusual weakness, muscle cramps, or irregular heartbeat (signs of electrolyte imbalance)
  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the IV site (signs of irritation or extravasation)
  • Confusion, dizziness, or headache
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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 and its symptoms.
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 and medications with your doctor.

To ensure safe treatment, tell your doctor and pharmacist about:
All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications you are taking
Any natural products or vitamins you are using
* All your health problems

Before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of any medication, including this one, consult with your doctor to confirm it is safe to do so.
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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 higher if you have kidney problems or are a premature infant. Your doctor will need to closely monitor you for any signs of aluminum toxicity.

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 cases, these complications can be fatal. If you have any questions or concerns about PN, discuss them with your doctor.

When used in newborns, this medication requires careful monitoring. Your doctor will need to weigh the potential benefits and risks of using this medication in newborns.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, 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.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Severe hyperglycemia (very high blood sugar)
  • Osmotic diuresis (excessive urination leading to dehydration)
  • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia)
  • Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic State (HHS)
  • Fluid overload (pulmonary edema, cerebral edema)
  • Lactic acidosis

What to Do:

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Call 911 or your local emergency number. Treatment involves stopping the infusion, administering insulin to lower blood glucose, correcting fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and providing supportive care.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Insulin (pharmacodynamic antagonism, requires careful titration)
  • Corticosteroids (can increase blood glucose, requiring higher dextrose doses or insulin)
  • Diuretics (especially loop and thiazide diuretics, can affect fluid and electrolyte balance, potentially exacerbating imbalances caused by hypertonic dextrose)
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Moderate Interactions

  • Oral hypoglycemic agents (e.g., sulfonylureas, meglitinides; dextrose will counteract their effect)
  • Amphotericin B (can cause hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia, which may be exacerbated by fluid shifts from hypertonic dextrose)

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Blood Glucose

Rationale: To establish baseline glucose levels and guide initial infusion rate.

Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion

Serum Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, Mg, Phos)

Rationale: To assess baseline electrolyte status, as hypertonic dextrose can cause shifts and imbalances.

Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion

Renal Function (BUN, Creatinine)

Rationale: To assess kidney function, which impacts fluid and electrolyte balance and glucose excretion.

Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion

Fluid Status (Weight, Vital Signs, Edema)

Rationale: To assess baseline hydration and cardiovascular status, given the risk of fluid overload.

Timing: Prior to initiation of infusion

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Routine Monitoring

Blood Glucose

Frequency: Every 1-4 hours initially, then every 4-6 hours or as clinically indicated

Target: 70-180 mg/dL (individualized based on patient condition)

Action Threshold: Below 70 mg/dL or above 180-200 mg/dL (adjust infusion rate, consider insulin)

Serum Electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, Mg, Phos)

Frequency: Daily or every 12-24 hours, more frequently if unstable

Target: Normal physiological ranges

Action Threshold: Abnormal values (correct imbalances, adjust infusion)

Fluid Balance (Intake & Output, Daily Weight)

Frequency: Every 8-24 hours

Target: Appropriate fluid balance for patient's condition

Action Threshold: Significant positive or negative balance, rapid weight changes (adjust fluid intake)

Vital Signs (BP, HR, RR, Temp)

Frequency: Every 4-8 hours or as clinically indicated

Target: Normal physiological ranges

Action Threshold: Significant deviations (assess for fluid overload, infection, metabolic derangements)

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Symptoms of hyperglycemia (polyuria, polydipsia, blurred vision, fatigue, confusion)
  • Symptoms of fluid overload (dyspnea, orthopnea, peripheral edema, crackles in lungs, rapid weight gain)
  • Symptoms of electrolyte imbalances (muscle weakness, cramps, cardiac arrhythmias, paresthesias, altered mental status)
  • Signs of phlebitis or extravasation at infusion site (pain, redness, swelling, tenderness)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Dextrose is a natural component of human metabolism. While generally considered safe, Dextrose 70% is a hypertonic solution. Use during pregnancy should be with caution, monitoring maternal blood glucose and fluid/electrolyte status closely to avoid hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis, or fluid overload, which could affect the fetus. Category C.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Risk of hyperglycemia and fluid/electrolyte imbalances, which could theoretically impact early fetal development if severe.
Second Trimester: Risk of hyperglycemia and fluid/electrolyte imbalances. Close monitoring is essential.
Third Trimester: Risk of hyperglycemia and fluid/electrolyte imbalances. Close monitoring is essential, especially considering potential for maternal fluid shifts and impact on fetal well-being.
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Lactation

Dextrose is a natural sugar and is not expected to be harmful to a breastfed infant. However, high concentrations or rapid administration in the mother could theoretically lead to transient changes in breast milk osmolality or glucose content. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitor infant for signs of hyperglycemia if mother receives large amounts.

Infant Risk: Low risk, but monitor for signs of hyperglycemia (e.g., increased urination, lethargy) if mother receives high doses.
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Pediatric Use

Use with extreme caution, especially in neonates and infants, due to their immature glucose regulatory mechanisms and higher risk of hyperglycemia, rebound hypoglycemia, and fluid/electrolyte imbalances. Dosing must be precise and weight-based, with frequent blood glucose monitoring. Risk of cerebral edema if administered too rapidly or in excessive amounts.

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Geriatric Use

Use with caution due to increased susceptibility to fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, renal insufficiency, cardiovascular disease). Start with lower infusion rates and monitor closely for adverse effects.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Dextrose 70% is a highly hypertonic solution (approximately 2400 mOsm/L). It should ideally be administered via a central venous catheter to minimize the risk of phlebitis, venous irritation, and extravasation. If a peripheral vein must be used, select a large vein and monitor the site frequently.
  • Abrupt discontinuation of high-rate dextrose infusions can lead to rebound hypoglycemia. Taper the infusion rate gradually if possible, or transition to a lower concentration dextrose solution.
  • Always monitor blood glucose levels frequently (e.g., every 1-4 hours initially) when initiating or adjusting Dextrose 70% infusions, especially in critically ill patients, neonates, or those with diabetes.
  • Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia) can occur during high-rate dextrose infusions due to intracellular shifts of these electrolytes as glucose is metabolized. Supplementation may be required.
  • Dextrose 70% is primarily used for caloric support in parenteral nutrition or for severe, refractory hypoglycemia requiring continuous glucose infusion. It is generally NOT used as a rapid bolus for acute hypoglycemia; Dextrose 50% is preferred for that indication.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Oral glucose (for mild to moderate hypoglycemia)
  • Glucagon (for severe hypoglycemia)
  • Other parenteral nutrition formulations (e.g., amino acids, lipids)
  • Enteral nutrition (if gastrointestinal tract is functional)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Highly variable, typically low cost per 500ml bag
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Typically covered as part of medical treatment in hospital or clinic settings.
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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 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. Unless instructed otherwise, do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist for advice. Many communities have drug take-back programs, which your pharmacist can help you locate.

Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; check with your pharmacist to see if this applies to your prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate 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 amount, and the time it was taken, as this will aid in providing appropriate care.