Dextrose And Sodium Chloride

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General 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

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
DEXTROSE AND SODIUM CHLORIDE 2.5%/0.45% FOR INJECTION—Injectable1Commercial

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)