Sodium Chloride 0.22% & Dextrose 5% Injection

Category: Intravenous fluid / Parenteral nutrition adjunct
Form: Sterile solution for intravenous (IV) infusion

Composition:

• Sodium chloride (NaCl) 0.22% – provides a small amount of sodium and chloride.

• Dextrose 5% (D5W) – provides 5 grams of glucose per 100 mL of solution.

• Water for injection as the solvent.

Uses:

• Fluid replacement when mild sodium supplementation is needed.

• Provides calories via dextrose to prevent catabolism in patients who cannot take oral nutrition.

• Used as a maintenance fluid in patients with normal electrolyte balance.

• Can serve as a carrier for intravenous medications.

Mechanism of Action:

• Sodium chloride maintains osmotic balance and supports extracellular fluid volume.

• Dextrose supplies glucose, which is metabolized for energy and helps prevent protein breakdown.

• The solution is hypotonic relative to plasma, providing mild fluid and energy replacement without overloading electrolytes.

Administration:

• Administered intravenously over a prescribed period.

• Rate depends on patient age, weight, fluid requirements, and clinical condition.

• Monitor blood glucose and electrolyte levels during prolonged infusion.

Side Effects:

• Hyperglycemia, especially in diabetic patients.

• Fluid overload in patients with heart or kidney problems.

• Rare electrolyte imbalance if used inappropriately.

• Local reactions at injection site are uncommon.

Precautions:

• Use cautiously in patients with diabetes, heart failure, or renal impairment.

• Monitor blood glucose, electrolytes, and fluid balance during therapy.

• Adjust infusion rate to avoid fluid or electrolyte overload.

Summary:
Sodium Chloride 0.22% & Dextrose 5% Injection is a hypotonic intravenous solution that provides mild sodium replacement and glucose for energy. It is used for maintenance fluid therapy, mild hydration, and as a carrier for medications. Administered intravenously, it requires monitoring of blood glucose, electrolytes, and fluid status, particularly in patients with diabetes, heart, or kidney disease.