Dextrose (Glucose)
Dextrose is a simple carbohydrate (sugar) chemically identical to glucose. It is rapidly absorbed by the body to increase blood sugar levels. It is administered orally for mild-to-moderate hypoglycemia in conscious patients, or intravenously in clinical settings for severe hypoglycemia, hydration, or as a vehicle for other compatible IV medications.
Dosage by Body Weight
For mild-to-moderate hypoglycemia in conscious individuals, the 'Rule of 15' is recommended: consume 15 grams of fast-acting oral glucose, wait 15 minutes, and re-check blood glucose levels. For intravenous emergency correction of hypoglycemia in pediatric populations, a standard dose of 2 mL/kg of Dextrose 10% (D10W) is typically administered under professional medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 2 mL/kg of D10W (up to 10 mL)
- Frequency
- Single dose as emergency treatment
- Tracking Notes
- Administer intravenously for neonatal/infant hypoglycemia. Monitor blood glucose closely to avoid rebound hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 10 - 14 mL of D10W
- Frequency
- Single dose as emergency treatment
- Tracking Notes
- Equivalent to 1 to 1.4 grams of dextrose via IV. Seek immediate emergency medical care.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 16 - 20 mL of D10W
- Frequency
- Single dose as emergency treatment
- Tracking Notes
- Equivalent to 1.6 to 2 grams of dextrose. Monitor blood glucose levels 15 minutes post-infusion.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 22 - 30 mL of D10W
- Frequency
- Single dose as emergency treatment
- Tracking Notes
- Equivalent to 2.2 to 3 grams of dextrose. Ensure secure IV access before administration as extravasation can cause tissue irritation.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 32 - 40 mL of D10W (or 15g oral glucose if conscious)
- Frequency
- Single dose as emergency treatment
- Tracking Notes
- If the child is fully conscious, cooperative, and able to swallow safely, 15 grams of fast-acting oral glucose gel or chewable tablets is preferred over IV access.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 2 mL/kg of D10W (up to 10 mL) | Single dose as emergency treatment | Administer intravenously for neonatal/infant hypoglycemia. Monitor blood glucose closely to avoid rebound hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. |
| 5-7 kg | 10 - 14 mL of D10W | Single dose as emergency treatment | Equivalent to 1 to 1.4 grams of dextrose via IV. Seek immediate emergency medical care. |
| 8-10 kg | 16 - 20 mL of D10W | Single dose as emergency treatment | Equivalent to 1.6 to 2 grams of dextrose. Monitor blood glucose levels 15 minutes post-infusion. |
| 11-15 kg | 22 - 30 mL of D10W | Single dose as emergency treatment | Equivalent to 2.2 to 3 grams of dextrose. Ensure secure IV access before administration as extravasation can cause tissue irritation. |
| 16-20 kg | 32 - 40 mL of D10W (or 15g oral glucose if conscious) | Single dose as emergency treatment | If the child is fully conscious, cooperative, and able to swallow safely, 15 grams of fast-acting oral glucose gel or chewable tablets is preferred over IV access. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat acute hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), provide fluid replacement, and deliver immediate caloric support.
Generic Name
DextroseBranded Drug Names
Dextrose (Glucose) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.