NAME OF DRUG
dextrose 50%

CLASSIFICATION

Caloric agent

ALTERNATE NAME

glucose 50% 

INDICATIONS

• hypoglycemia, diabetic coma
• calorie source
• hyperkalemia

RECONSTITUTION AND STABILITY

• stable at room temperature
• dextrose 50% syringe - discard unused portion

COMPATIBILITY

ROUTES OF ADMINISTRATION

• IV direct - slowly at rate of 10-20 mL/min in emergency situations through a large vein
• IV infusion - central lines only

IV USE ONLY

VH & HSC ADMINISTRATION POLICY

E - Direct IV route can be administered by nurses on general nursing units provided a venous access has been established, and according to policies and recommendations stated in this manual.

DOSAGE

Adults:

Hypoglycemia: 50-100 mL of 50% solution; may be repeated according to patient's response

Children:  MUST BE DILUTED

2-4 mL/kg/dose of 25% solution by slow IV

POTENTIAL HAZARDS OF PARENTERAL ADMINISTRATION

• thrombophlebitis, pain, vein irritation at injection site
• rapid injection may produce generalized flush which subsides within ten minutes

IMPORTANT IMPLICATIONS

• hyperglycemia; glucosuria may occur as a result of the rate of administration or metabolic insufficiency, this can lead to dehydration, hyperosmolar coma and death
• changes in fluid and electrolyte balance and acid base balance (eg hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia and hypomagnesemia
• avoid 50% solution in children because it is highly sclerosing and irritating to veins - dilute to 25% or less
• SC administration not recommended due to possible irritation and necrosis
• caloric content:  dextrose 50% is 170 calories per 100 mL

Rev. May 2007