Dexaqua

Indications for Use

Dexaqua is primarily indicated for the treatment of carbohydrate and fluid deficiencies. It is designed to address water deficits, particularly when electrolyte loss is not significant. Dehydration can occur when fluid losses surpass intake, which is common in conditions like coma, dysphagia, or among elderly individuals who may not drink enough water independently. Dexaqua serves as a readily metabolizable nutrient source, with a 5% solution delivering approximately 170 calories per liter. This solution is also utilized alongside calcium bicarbonate and insulin for managing hyperkalemia in emergencies and for treating diabetic ketoacidosis, provided insulin infusion continues. Additionally, Dexaqua can be used as a vehicle for slow intravenous infusion of various medications.

Pharmacology

Dextrose, a form of glucose, is utilized in medical treatments to replace lost fluids and supply essential carbohydrates. Administered intravenously, Dextrose 5% in Water helps address conditions such as low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), insulin shock, and dehydration. It also offers nutritional support for patients who are unable to consume food due to illness, injury, or other medical conditions.

Dosage

5% Dextrose Solution: The dosage of dextrose infusion is tailored to individual patient needs, typically ranging from 500 to 1000 ml. The maximum infusion rate to avoid glycosuria is 0.5 g/kg/hour, with 95% retention achievable at 0.8 g/kg/hour. The glucose utilization rate should not exceed 800 mg/kg/hour.

Oral Powder Dosage:

• Adults: 10-20 gm as a single dose; may repeat after 10 minutes if necessary.
• Children (over 2 years): 10-20 gm as a single dose; may repeat after 10 minutes if necessary.

Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Administration Instructions

1. Verify the infusion set and solution before use.
2. Tear off the Eurocap’s protective cover.
3. Hold the Eurocap lightly, avoiding the bottle body.
4. Open the flow regulator fully and secure the administration set by fitting the spike into the Eurocap.
5. Allow the fluid to flow to the needle tip and then close the system.
6. Remove the needle’s protective cover.
7. Clean the venipuncture site with an antiseptic solution and insert the needle.
8. Secure the site with tape and start the infusion, adjusting the drip speed as needed.

Contraindications

Do not use Dexaqua if you are allergic to dextrose. Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, breathing issues, an electrolyte imbalance, kidney or liver disease, allergies to foods or medications, or if you receive regular blood transfusions.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include:

• Severe burning, pain, or swelling around the IV site.
• Warmth, redness, oozing, or bleeding at the IV insertion site.
• Fever, persistent cough.
• High blood sugar symptoms: headache, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, weakness, dizziness, hallucinations, fainting, seizures, shallow breathing.
• Low potassium symptoms: anxiety, sweating, pale skin, severe shortness of breath, wheezing, rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Pregnancy & Lactation

FDA Pregnancy Category C: The safety of Dexaqua 5% in Water during pregnancy is unknown. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is also unknown if this medication passes into breast milk or could harm a nursing baby. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Precautions & Warnings

• Monitor serum glucose levels carefully.
• Insulin may be required for diabetic patients.
• Do not mix Dexaqua with whole blood to avoid hemolysis and clumping.
• Discontinue infusion immediately if any adverse reactions occur.
• Avoid using if the solution is cloudy, contains particles, or is past its expiration date.

Take special care with Dexaqua. Consult your doctor if you have allergies or any of the following conditions:

• Diabetes
• Breathing problems
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Kidney or liver disease
• Allergies to foods or medicines
• Regular blood transfusions

Therapeutic Class

Intravenous Fluid Preparations

Storage Conditions

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.