DEXTROSE 5%, SODIUM CHLORIDE 0.2% AND POTASSIUM CHLORIDE 0.224% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER
Clinical safety rating
safeNo significant drug interactions Can cause hypernatremia and fluid overload.
Dextrose provides a source of calories and fluid for cellular metabolism. Sodium chloride and potassium chloride replace electrolyte deficits and maintain acid-base balance.
| Metabolism | Dextrose is metabolized to carbon dioxide and water via glycolysis and the citric acid cycle; potassium is primarily excreted by the kidneys; sodium is excreted by the kidneys and sweat. |
| Excretion | Excretion is primarily renal for potassium and chloride; dextrose is metabolized to CO2 and water. Potassium: >90% excreted in urine; chloride: >95% renally absorbed and excreted; dextrose: not excreted unchanged. |
| Half-life | Dextrose: <1 minute (rapid uptake into cells); potassium: ~4-6 hours in a 70 kg adult with normal renal function; chloride: variable, follows sodium kinetics. |
| Protein binding | Dextrose: negligible; potassium: negligible; chloride: negligible. |
| Volume of Distribution | Dextrose: extracellular fluid (0.2 L/kg); potassium: total body water (0.5-0.6 L/kg); chloride: extracellular fluid (0.2 L/kg). |
| Bioavailability | Intravenous: 100%; not administered by other routes. |
| Onset of Action | Intravenous: immediate for dextrose (within seconds), potassium and chloride effects begin within minutes as distribution occurs. |
| Duration of Action | Dextrose: 1-2 hours depending on infusion rate (continuous replacement); potassium: duration depends on infusion rate and renal function; chloride: sustained as long as infused. |
| Molecular Weight | Dextrose: 180.16 Da; Potassium chloride: 74.55 Da; Sodium chloride: 58.44 Da |
IV infusion; rate determined by fluid and electrolyte requirements. Typical adult dose: 1000-2000 mL per 24 hours, administered at 40-80 mL/hour.
| Dosage form | INJECTABLE |
| Renal impairment | GFR 30-50 mL/min: reduce infusion rate by 25-50%. GFR <30 mL/min: avoid use or use with extreme caution, monitor serum potassium closely. Not recommended in oliguric renal failure. |
| Liver impairment | No specific adjustment for Child-Pugh class A or B. In severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C), use with caution due to risk of fluid overload and electrolyte disturbances. Monitor serum potassium and glucose. |
| Pediatric use | Weight-based dosing: 20-100 mL/kg/24 hours for maintenance, adjust based on clinical status and serum electrolytes. Typical rate: 1-4 mL/kg/hour. Use with caution in neonates due to risk of hyperkalemia. |
| Geriatric use | Lower initial infusion rates (e.g., 20-40 mL/hour) to avoid fluid overload. Monitor renal function and serum potassium. Adjust dose based on estimated GFR and clinical response. |
| 1st trimester | Generally safe when used for fluid and electrolyte replacement; no known teratogenic effects at standard doses. |
| 2nd trimester | Safe for use in fluid and electrolyte replacement; no known fetal harm. |
| 3rd trimester | Safe for use; may be used for hydration and electrolyte balance during labor and delivery. |
Clinical note
No significant drug interactions Can cause hypernatremia and fluid overload.
| FDA category | Animal |
| Placental transfer | Crosses placenta; dextrose is actively transported, and sodium, potassium, and chloride are transferred via passive diffusion and active transport. |
| Breastfeeding | Excreted into breast milk in small amounts; considered compatible with breastfeeding. Monitor infant for potential adverse effects if high doses are administered. |
| Lactation Rating | L1 (Safe) |
| Teratogenic Risk | No known teratogenic risk; dextrose, sodium chloride, and potassium chloride are physiological components essential for maternal and fetal homeostasis. No increased risk of congenital anomalies reported. |
| Fetal Monitoring | Monitor serum glucose, sodium, potassium, and chloride levels; assess fluid balance and renal function. Fetal monitoring for heart rate and growth if prolonged infusion. |
| Fertility Effects | No known adverse effects on fertility; these substances are essential for normal metabolic function. |
■ FDA Black Box Warning
No FDA black box warning for this specific combination.
| Common Effects | fluid replacement |
| Serious Effects |
HyperkalemiaHypernatremiaSevere renal impairmentAnuriaHyperglycemia with ketoacidosis (unless specified)Known hypersensitivity to any component
| Precautions | Monitor serum electrolytes, fluid balance, and renal function, Avoid in patients with renal impairment or hyperkalemia, Avoid in patients with anuria or severe dehydration, Contains aluminum which may be toxic with prolonged use in renal impairment |
| Food/Dietary | No specific food interactions. Patients receiving intravenous dextrose may need dietary adjustments for blood glucose control if diabetic. Potassium content should be considered in dietary potassium intake for patients on potassium-altering medications or with renal impairment. No known interaction with oral medications, but consult healthcare provider. |
| Clinical Pearls | Contains 5% dextrose (50 g/L), 0.2% sodium chloride (34 mEq/L Na+), and 0.224% potassium chloride (30 mEq/L K+). Use only if patient is not hyperkalemic; monitor serum potassium closely, especially in renal impairment. Do not administer if solution is discolored or contains precipitate. Do not use plastic container in series connections. Rapid infusion may cause hyperglycemia, especially in diabetic patients. Avoid in patients with known allergies to corn-derived products (dextrose). |
| Patient Advice | This solution provides fluids, sugar, and electrolytes (salt and potassium) to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. · Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to corn. · Report any signs of allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. · If you have diabetes, your blood sugar may rise; monitor as directed. · Tell your doctor if you experience swelling, shortness of breath, or muscle weakness. · Do not adjust the IV rate yourself; the infusion will be monitored by your healthcare team. |
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