GLUCOSE (DEXTROSE)

Fluid replacement solution; also used to prepare injectable medicines

Dosage Forms

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Solution for IV Infusion

5% (D5%, isotonic)
50% (hypertonic)

Uses

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  • Fluid replacement (dehydration) in case of loss due to burns, shock, diarrhoea, or vomiting
  • Hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose level)
  • Preparation of injectable medicines

Dose and Duration

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Fluid replacement (in combination with sodium chloride or Ringer’s Lactate)
2 litres (4 bottles of 500 ml) of 5% glucose in 24 hours. Duration according to clinical response.
Hypoglycaemia
1 ml/kg 50% glucose as an IV bolus (slowly over 5 minutes) diluted with an equal volume of water for injections. Give by nasogastric tube if IV route is not possible
Preparation of injectable medicines
See relevant medicine

Side Effects

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  • Irritation at the injection site, thrombophlebitis
  • Electrolyte disturbances, high blood glucose level
  • Oedema

Pregnancy

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  • Can be used

Breast-feeding

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  • Can be used

⚠️ Caution

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  • Glucose solutions have low sodium content and are poor replacement fluids. Always use in combination with Ringer's lactate or sodium chloride
  • Do not use glucose to prepare phenytoin injection
  • Never give by IM or SC routes
  • Glucose 50% solution is very thick and sticky and can also cause injection site reactions. Dilute 50% solution with an equal volume of water for injection or normal saline.
  • Monitor blood glucose levels every 30 minutes
  • As soon as patient is able to take orally, switch to oral glucose/sugary drinks