5 Glucose Dextrose Injection

Fluid and electrolyte replacement in dehydration, hypovolaemia, shock, perioperative care, and as a vehicle for intravenous drug administration (WHO essential medicines: sodium chloride 0.9%, Ringer's lactate, glucose 5%).

Intravenous infusion using sterile technique; inspect for particulates before use. Rate depends on the clinical state; monitor intake, output and electrolytes.

Adults commonly 500–1,000 ml over 4–8 hours, guided by the deficit and response; children 10–20 ml/kg boluses for shock (initial resuscitation), then reassess. Glucose 5% is not a resuscitation fluid for shock — use isotonic crystalloid.

Over-infusion causes fluid overload and pulmonary oedema, especially in cardiac or renal impairment, the elderly and children — monitor closely. Avoid glucose-containing fluids in severe hyperglycaemia; large volumes of normal saline cause hyperchloraemic acidosis.