Glucose 5% G/V

Glucose 5% G/V is an intravenous solution for injection that contains 5% w/v glucose monohydrate as the active ingredient. It is classified as an excipient/carbohydrate solution and is marketed in the European Union for use under prescription. The product provides a readily available source of glucose for energy and fluid volume expansion when administered intravenously.

Glucose 5% G/V is employed in clinical settings to address several metabolic and fluid needs. It is commonly used for: - Treatment of hypoglycemia in patients unable to take oral glucose. - Fluid and electrolyte replacement during dehydration or surgery. - Parenteral nutrition as a carbohydrate source. - Maintenance of blood glucose levels in critically ill or peri‑operative patients. - Support for patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN).

Glucose 5% G/V is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur. The frequency and severity of side effects vary.

Common: - Hyperglycemia or elevated blood glucose levels. - Local irritation at the infusion site. - Mild nausea or vomiting. - Headache. - Transient electrolyte imbalance (e.g., low potassium).

Serious: - Severe hyperglycemia leading to osmotic diuresis. - Allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. - Volume overload causing pulmonary edema. - Metabolic acidosis in susceptible patients.

Glucose 5% G/V should be administered with careful clinical assessment. Important considerations include: - Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly during infusion. - Adjusting dosage in patients with diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose tolerance. - Assessing fluid status to avoid volume overload, especially in heart failure or renal impairment. - Using caution in patients with electrolyte disturbances, particularly hypokalemia. - Avoiding rapid infusion rates that may cause hyperosmolar complications. - Ensuring aseptic technique to prevent catheter‑related infections.

Glucose 5% G/V may interact with other medications or clinical conditions. Interactions to note are:

Avoid: - Concurrent use of high‑dose insulin without glucose monitoring, which can precipitate severe hypoglycemia. - Co‑administration with other hypertonic carbohydrate solutions that may cause excessive hyperglycemia.

Use with caution: - Diuretics that affect electrolyte balance, requiring close monitoring. - Beta‑blockers, which can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia. - Corticosteroids, as they may increase glucose requirements. - Medications that affect renal function, such as ACE inhibitors, due to fluid balance considerations.