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Intravenous Electrolyte Solution/Discontinued

ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER

ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER

Clinical safety rating

caution

Comprehensive clinical and safety monograph for ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER (ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER).


Mechanism of Action

ISOLYTE P with 5% Dextrose provides electrolyte replacement and caloric supplementation. Dextrose is metabolized to carbon dioxide and water, yielding energy. Electrolytes are essential for maintaining osmotic balance, acid-base equilibrium, and normal cellular function.

What the body does with it

MetabolismDextrose is metabolized via glycolysis and the Krebs cycle. Electrolytes are not metabolized but are excreted or reabsorbed.
ExcretionRenal excretion of free water and electrolytes; dextrose is metabolized to CO2 and water, with negligible biliary or fecal elimination. Approximately 50-70% of infused water is excreted renally within 24 hours, adjusted by ADH and renal function.
Half-lifeDextrose: rapid clearance, half-life ~1.5-2 hours in normoglycemic patients; prolonged in renal impairment or diabetes. Electrolytes follow homeostatic regulation with no defined terminal half-life.
Protein bindingDextrose: negligible (<1%). Electrolytes: sodium and potassium are not protein bound; chloride, acetate, and gluconate are free in plasma.
Volume of DistributionDextrose: ~0.2 L/kg (limited to extracellular fluid initially); electrolytes distribute according to body water compartments: sodium ~0.2 L/kg (ECF), potassium ~0.4 L/kg (ICF).
BioavailabilityIntravenous: 100% (complete bioavailability). No oral formulation; oral dextrose has variable absorption.
Onset of ActionIntravenous: immediate (seconds to minutes) for volume expansion and electrolyte distribution; dextrose metabolism begins within minutes.
Duration of ActionIntravenous: 2-4 hours for volume effect; electrolyte and glucose effects persist as long as infusion continues; rapid redistribution after cessation.
Molecular WeightDextrose: 180.16 Da; Electrolytes: varies (e.g., Na+ 23 Da, K+ 39 Da, Mg2+ 24 Da, Cl- 35.5 Da, acetate 59 Da, gluconate 196 Da)

Classification & Brands

Dosing & administration

Intravenous infusion. Adult dose: 1000-2000 mL over 24 hours, adjusted based on fluid and electrolyte needs. Typical rate: 125-150 mL/hour.

Dosage formINJECTABLE
Renal impairmentGFR 10-50 mL/min: Monitor electrolytes closely; reduce infusion rate if hyperkalemia or fluid overload. GFR <10 mL/min: Contraindicated if severe renal impairment with oliguria or anuria; use with caution and adjust volume based on residual renal function.
Liver impairmentChild-Pugh A: No adjustment. Child-Pugh B and C: Monitor for fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances; adjust volume and rate accordingly.
Pediatric useWeight-based: 20-100 mL/kg/day, adjusted for hydration status and maintenance needs. Maximum rate: 4-8 mL/kg/hour depending on age and clinical condition.
Geriatric useElderly patients: Use lower end of dose range due to decreased renal function and risk of fluid overload; monitor electrolytes and volume status closely.

Use during pregnancy

1st trimesterNo evidence of fetal harm; intravenous electrolyte and glucose solutions are used when clinically indicated. Dextrose may cause maternal hyperglycemia; monitor blood glucose. Considered safe with appropriate monitoring.
2nd trimesterNo evidence of fetal harm; use when clinically indicated. Monitor maternal glucose and electrolytes to avoid imbalance.
3rd trimesterNo evidence of fetal harm; use when clinically indicated. Avoid excess dextrose to prevent neonatal hyperinsulinemia and hypoglycemia. Monitor maternal glucose.

Clinical note

Comprehensive clinical and safety monograph for ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER (ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER).

Placental transferDextrose and electrolytes readily cross the placenta via simple diffusion and active transport. Concentrations in fetal blood equilibrate with maternal levels. No specific evidence of adverse effects from therapeutic use.
BreastfeedingISOLYTE P with Dextrose 5% is compatible with breastfeeding. The components are normal constituents of human milk. Administration to the mother does not pose a risk to the nursing infant. Monitor infant for any signs of electrolyte imbalance if high doses are used.
Lactation RatingSafe
Teratogenic RiskDextrose 5% and electrolytes (Isolyte P) are generally considered to have low teratogenic risk. Dextrose solutions are essential for maintaining maternal glucose levels; severe electrolyte imbalances may pose risks. No specific teratogenic effects have been reported from the components at therapeutic doses. Trimester-specific risks: First trimester: No known teratogenicity. Second and third trimesters: Use is safe when indicated, but avoid hyperglycemia which may be associated with fetal macrosomia or neonatal hypoglycemia.
Fetal MonitoringMonitor maternal blood glucose, serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate), and fluid balance. For fetal monitoring, assess uterine activity and fetal heart rate patterns during infusion if indicated for maternal condition. In prolonged use, monitor for signs of fluid overload or electrolyte disturbances.
Fertility EffectsNo known effects on fertility. Dextrose and electrolyte solutions are used for fluid and electrolyte maintenance and do not impair reproductive function.

Warnings & precautions

■ FDA Black Box Warning

None

Side Effect Profile

Serious Effects

Absolute Contraindications

Hyperglycemia (unless appropriate hypoglycemic therapy is administered)Hypersensitivity to any componentClinically significant hyperkalemia (for potassium-containing formulations)Patients with acute intracranial hemorrhage (if containing dextrose, due to risk of hyperglycemia)Severe metabolic acidosis (unless corrected)Anuria or severe renal impairment (unless dialysis is available)

Clinical Precautions

PrecautionsRisk of hyperglycemia, especially in patients with diabetes mellitus, Monitor serum electrolytes, glucose, and fluid balance, May cause fluid overload in patients with renal or cardiac impairment, In neonates, rapid administration may cause hyperinsulinemia and rebound hypoglycemia, Use with caution in patients with severe electrolyte disturbances
Food/DietaryFood interactions are not clinically relevant as the drug is administered intravenously. However, oral intake may affect electrolyte levels; therefore, dietary intake of potassium, sodium, and other electrolytes should be considered when monitoring therapy. Avoid concurrent use with phosphate-containing oral products without medical advice due to risk of hyperphosphatemia.

Clinical Tips & Counseling

Clinical PearlsISOLYTE P with DEXTROSE 5% is a balanced maintenance fluid containing multiple electrolytes including potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It is designed for pediatric patients or those requiring maintenance fluids with lower sodium content. Monitor serum electrolytes frequently, especially in renal impairment. This solution provides 5% dextrose, representing ~170 kcal/L, which can help prevent ketosis. Do not use in patients with hyperkalemia, severe renal failure, or uncorrected metabolic alkalosis. Infuse via central line only if peripheral access is inadequate due to potential phlebitis.
Patient AdviceThis fluid is given intravenously to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. · It contains sugar (dextrose) to provide calories. · Inform your healthcare provider if you have diabetes, kidney problems, or heart disease. · Report any signs of infection at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, or pain. · Tell your doctor if you experience muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or tingling sensations. · This medication may affect blood sugar levels; monitor if diabetic.

ISOLYTE P W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER Interactions

Loading safety data…

This overview is compiled from peer-reviewed clinical sources and FDA labeling. It's here to support — not replace — clinical judgment. Always verify dosing against your institution's current protocols before prescribing.

On this page

Mechanism of ActionDosing & administrationUse during pregnancyWarnings & precautionsDrug interactions

Compare with

ACETATED RINGER'S IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE E IN DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE E IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE E W/ DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINERISOLYTE H IN DEXTROSE 5% IN PLASTIC CONTAINER

External sources

DailyMed (NIH) PubMed OpenFDA