Dextrose And Sodium Chloride
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Parenteral carbohydrate source; treatment of hypoglycemia; fluid therapy vehicle; nutritional support.
Monosaccharide (D-glucose) parenteral carbohydrate solution. Mechanism: provides readily utilizable caloric substrate (4 kcal/g); treats hypoglycemia by directly raising blood glucose. Also used as an osmotic agent (50% dextrose) and as a dilutional fluid. Isotonic at 5%; hypertonic at concentrations >5%. Metabolized in all tissues via glycolysis.
Key information
Check concentration before administration. Concentrated solutions (>10%) must be given via central catheter. Extravasation causes tissue necrosis. Monitor blood glucose during infusion. Not compatible with blood products.
How to Give this Medication
IV: 5% dextrose — isotonic, suitable for CRI. 50% dextrose: dilute before use — add to IV fluids or administer slowly via large-bore IV catheter; rapid administration causes venous irritation and hyperglycemia. Oral dextrose paste (neonates): apply to gums. Monitor blood glucose during administration. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.
Side Effects
Hyperglycemia with excessive administration. Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia (dilutional with large volumes). Thrombophlebitis (concentrated solutions — 50%). Fluid overload. Phlebitis at IV catheter site. Rapid infusion of 50% dextrose without dilution: venous irritation, osmotic damage.
Precautions
For animals
50% dextrose: dilute before IV use — undiluted causes venous irritation and thrombosis. Monitor blood glucose regularly. Avoid rapid infusion — hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis. Avoid in horses with hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP).
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Glucose solution — generally safe. IV solutions administered by veterinary staff. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. IV dextrose overdose causes hyperglycemia, osmotic diuresis, and electrolyte disturbances. Managed by veterinary staff.
Dextrose And Sodium Chloride dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DEXTROSE AND SODIUM CHLORIDE 2.5%/0.45% FOR INJECTION | — | Injectable | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)