Dextrose
Indications
Dextrose is a form of glucose (sugar). By mouth, it is used to treat low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and as a quick source of energy, and it is part of some oral rehydration products. As an intravenous drip, it is used in hospital to give fluid and energy, to treat low blood sugar, and to carry other medicines into a vein.
How It Works
Dextrose is absorbed quickly and raises the level of glucose in the blood, which the body uses as its main fuel. In a drip, it also supplies water to the body.
Dosage and Administration
- Low blood sugar in an adult who is awake and can swallow: take 15 to 20 g of glucose by mouth, check blood sugar again after 15 minutes, and repeat if it is still low. Then eat a snack or meal.
- Energy or general use by mouth: as directed on the product label.
- Intravenous solutions (such as 5%, 10%, 25% or 50%): given by a doctor or nurse; the strength, amount and speed are as prescribed.
Never give anything by mouth to a person who is unconscious or cannot swallow safely.
Interactions
Dextrose raises blood sugar, so people taking Insulin or other diabetes medicines may need their doses checked. Corticosteroids such as Prednisolone can raise blood sugar further.
Contraindications
- Uncontrolled high blood sugar or diabetic coma with high sugar.
- For intravenous use: conditions such as severe fluid overload, which the treating doctor will assess.
Side Effects
By mouth: usually well tolerated; large amounts can raise blood sugar too much or cause nausea. By drip: pain, redness or swelling where the needle enters, irritation of the vein, high blood sugar, low blood potassium and too much fluid in the body.
Get urgent medical help if there is breathlessness, swelling of the legs or face, confusion, severe thirst with frequent passing of urine, or severe pain or swelling at the drip site.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Can be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding when needed. Intravenous Dextrose in pregnancy and labour is given under medical supervision.
Precautions and Warnings
People with diabetes should use it only to treat low blood sugar or as advised and should monitor their blood sugar. Intravenous use needs monitoring of blood sugar, salts and fluid balance, especially in children, older people and those with heart or kidney disease. Do not use a solution that is cloudy or leaking.
Overdose
Too much can cause very high blood sugar, dehydration from passing a lot of urine, and fluid overload with a drip. Seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Carbohydrate (caloric agent) and fluid replacement.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze intravenous solutions.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Dextrose