5% Glucose
Table 1 shows an overview of 5% glucose.
| 5% Glucose | |
|---|---|
|
Contents |
50 g glucose per litre of water |
|
Ionic composition |
none |
|
Glucose content |
5% : 50 g/L 278 mmol/L |
|
Calorific value |
860 kJ/l (205 cal/L) |
|
Osmolarity |
278 mOsm/L |
Table 1 Overview of 5% glucose
The 5% solution is approximately isosmolar. More concentrated glucose solutions are available, but are not used for fluid maintenance in adult patients. 10%, 20% and 50% solutions are hyperosmolar and should be given into a large vein where dilution with venous blood reduces the damaging effects on red blood cells.
Indications
5% glucose is used in severe dehydration, where intracellular water needs to be replaced and the patient is unable to take water orally, i.e. the best route for administering water.
It is not suitable for use alone because it contains no electrolytes and, therefore, sodium and potassium depletion occurs.
It can be used in diabetic patients who require insulin perioperatively but are unable to eat, as part of a 'sliding scale' management plan. In this case, it is essential to include potassium in the fluid administered.