Indications
Glucose and Electrolytes solutions are sterile fluids given into a vein (intravenous infusion) to replace water, sugar and salts. They are used for dehydration, to keep up fluid and energy intake when a person cannot eat or drink, before and after surgery, and to correct mild salt imbalances. Some products in this group also contain amino acids or other nutrients for intravenous feeding.
How It Works
Glucose (dextrose) supplies water and a quick source of energy for the body’s cells. Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and magnesium are minerals that keep the right balance of fluid inside and outside cells and allow nerves, muscles and the heart to work normally. Giving them directly into a vein restores levels quickly.
Dosage and Administration
These fluids are given by a doctor or nurse through a drip into a vein. The type of solution, amount and rate are chosen by the doctor according to the patient’s age, weight, condition and blood test results, as prescribed.
Interactions
- Potassium-containing fluids need care with medicines that raise potassium, such as Spironolactone, Amiloride, ACE inhibitors (e.g. Enalapril) or angiotensin blockers (e.g. Losartan).
- Sodium-containing fluids can affect Lithium levels.
- Calcium-containing fluids must not be mixed with Ceftriaxone in the same line, and need care in patients taking Digoxin.
- Corticosteroids can increase sodium and fluid retention.
Contraindications
- Fluid overload, severe heart failure or fluid on the lungs.
- Uncontrolled high blood sugar or diabetic coma (for glucose-containing fluids).
- High levels of the salts contained in the solution, such as high potassium or sodium.
- Severe kidney failure with low urine output, unless managed by a specialist.
Side Effects
Possible effects include pain, redness or swelling at the drip site, vein irritation, high blood sugar, swelling of the ankles, and changes in salt levels in the blood.
Medical staff should be told at once if the patient has breathlessness, chest pain, a fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, muscle weakness, severe swelling or signs of an allergic reaction during the infusion.
Pregnancy and Lactation
These fluids can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding when a doctor decides they are needed, with careful monitoring of fluid and salt balance.
Precautions and Warnings
Blood sugar, salts and fluid balance should be checked regularly, especially in people with diabetes, heart, kidney or liver disease, the elderly and children. Use only if the solution is clear and the bag is intact. Do not connect bags in series, to avoid air entering the line.
Overdose
Too much fluid can cause swelling, breathlessness and fluid on the lungs; it can also upset blood sugar and salt levels. The infusion is stopped and the patient is treated by the medical team.
Therapeutic Class
Intravenous fluid and electrolyte replenisher.
Storage
Store as directed on the pack, usually below 30°C, protected from freezing, and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.