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Dextrose 5% (D5W)
Dextrose 5% provides a source of glucose and water for intravenous fluid replacement and caloric supplementation.
Dextrose 5% provides a source of glucose and water for intravenous fluid replacement and caloric supplementation. Used for Fluid and electrolyte replacement in dehydration, Maintenance therapy in patients unable to take oral intake, Provision of calories and hydration in perioperative and critical care settings.
At a glance
| Generic name | Dextrose 5% (D5W) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | glucose 5% in water |
| Sponsor | Universidad Abierta Interamericana |
| Drug class | Intravenous fluid / Carbohydrate solution |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Supportive Care / Fluid and Electrolyte Management |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
D5W is a hypotonic crystalloid solution containing 5 grams of dextrose per 100 mL of sterile water. The dextrose is rapidly metabolized by cells for energy, leaving behind free water that distributes across total body water compartments. It is used for hydration, maintenance of electrolyte balance, and provision of modest caloric support in clinical settings.
Approved indications
- Fluid and electrolyte replacement in dehydration
- Maintenance therapy in patients unable to take oral intake
- Provision of calories and hydration in perioperative and critical care settings
Common side effects
- Hyperglycemia
- Hyponatremia (when used excessively without electrolyte supplementation)
- Phlebitis at infusion site
- Fluid overload
Key clinical trials
- Glucocorticoid, Ozone and 5% Dextrose Local Injection for Pain Relief in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (NA)
- SODium BICarbonate for Metabolic Acidosis in the ICU (PHASE3)
- The Impact of Perioperative Lidocaine Infusions on Enhanced Recovery After Non-Cardiac Surgery (PHASE4)
- Ceftriaxone Pulse Dose for Post-Treatment Lyme Disease (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Impact of Bupivacaine Dilution With Dextrose or Saline on Infraclavicular Block Outcomes (NA)
- Field Study on Intravenous Iloprost for Treatment of Severe Frostbite at High Altitude
- Intravenous N-Acetylcysteine for the Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke (PHASE2)
- Cervical Plexus Hydrodissection With D5W Versus NS for Treatment-Resistant PTSD (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |