Dextrose is an intravenous fluid to treat hypoglycemia or conditions where blood sugar levels are too low. This drug is also used as an alternative to meet the needs of sugar and fluids in patients with certain medical conditions.
Dextrose is a form of sugar that is naturally produced by the liver. Dextrose is a source of energy needed by body cells to function properly.
In conditions that are too low in blood sugar levels, additional dextrose is needed to increase blood sugar levels. Dextrose that is injected into a vein will work quickly to increase blood sugar levels.
Apart from injectable liquid, there is also dextrose made from corn. Dextrose from corn is usually processed into corn syrup or artificial sweeteners in the food industry.
Dextrose trademark: Ecosol G5, Ecosol G 10, ORS 200, Wida D5-1/2NS, Infusion D5, Dextrose, Wida D10, Otsu D40
What is Dextrose
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Infusion fluid |
| Benefit | Treating hypoglycemia |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Dextrose for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. The drug should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. It is not known whether dextrose can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor about the benefits and risks, before using this medicine. |
| Shape | Injectable or intravenous fluids |
Precautions Before Using Dextrose
Dextrose liquid will be given in the hospital by a doctor or medical personnel under the supervision of a doctor. Some things to note before using this drug are:
- Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. Liquid dextrose should not be given to patients who are allergic to this drug or allergic to processed corn products.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had diabetes, hyperglycemia, severe head injury, severe malnutrition, infectious disease, kidney failure, edema, or electrolyte disturbances, including hypokalemia.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See your doctor right away if you experience an allergic reaction, serious side effect, or overdose after using dextrose.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Dextrose
Dextrose infusion is available in liquid form with levels of 2.5%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 50%, and 70% for different purposes. The dose of dextrose will be determined by the doctor according to the patient's condition.
In general, the following are dextrose for adults and children to treat hypoglycemia:
- Mature: 10–25 grams, which is equivalent to 40–100 mL of a 25% dextrose solution or 20–50 mL of a 50% solution, given by infusion into a large vein. Administration of dextrose can be repeated in conditions of severe hypoglycemia.
- Children: 0.25–0.5 g/kgBW per day for toddlers 6 months of age is 0.5–1 g/kgBW with a maximum dose of 25 grams per 1 dose.
The dose of dextrose to treat fluid and sugar deficiency due to certain medical conditions will be determined by the doctor according to the patient's condition. Usually, the dextrose that will be used is 5% dextrose and is given through an IV into a small vein.
How to Use Dextrose Correctly
Dextrose will be given directly by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor at a hospital. Dextrose will be injected into a vein directly or through intravenous fluids.
Follow the recommendations and advice given by the doctor while undergoing treatment with dextrose. The doctor will also check the patient's blood sugar level periodically.
Dextrose Interactions with Other Drugs
To avoid drug interactions, always tell your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially treatment with furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, hydrocortisone, prednisone, or medications that contain magnesium. Also tell your doctor if you are taking diabetes medication.
Side Effects and Dangers of Dextrose
Common side effects that may occur after using dextrose are pain and irritation at the injection site.
In some conditions, the use of dextrose can also cause hyperglycemia, which can be characterized by certain symptoms, such as fruity breath, persistent thirst, nausea, vomiting, fatigue for no reason, frequent urination.
Report to the doctor if you experience the above complaints and symptoms. You also need to tell your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Electrolyte imbalance, which can be characterized by certain symptoms, such as muscle aches, weakness, mood swings, irregular heartbeat, difficulty urinating, dry mouth, dry eyes, vomiting, or severe stomach pain
- Impaired vision, loss of coordination and balance, or speech disturbance, which suddenly
- Difficulty breathing, sudden and drastic weight gain, swelling in the feet and hands
- Headache, very severe dizziness, or fainting
- Fever, chills, or blue lips and fingernails