Home Drug Guide Dextrose; Magnesium Acetate; Potassium Acetate; Sodium Chloride

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Dextrose; Magnesium Acetate; Potassium Acetate; Sodium Chloride

Brand Names Normosol-M, Dextrose 5% in Plastic Container

Classification

Therapeutic: Intravenous fluid and electrolyte replacement

Pharmacological: Electrolyte solution and carbohydrate source

FDA Approved Indications

Fluid and electrolyte replenishment in dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and physiologic maintenance

Mechanism of Action

Provides essential electrolytes and glucose to correct deficits and maintain fluid balance in the body.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: As per physician’s orders, typically 100-200 mL/hr infusion rate, adjusted based on clinical condition.

Pediatric: Dosing individualized based on age, weight, and clinical need; consult pediatric dosing guidelines.

Geriatric: Adjust as necessary based on renal, hepatic function, and volume status.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution; monitor electrolyte levels and kidney function.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor for fluid overload and electrolyte imbalances.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Immediately available for use after infusion; electrolytes distribute throughout body fluids.

Distribution: Electrolytes distribute widely within total body water.

Metabolism: Electrolytes are not metabolized, but used in various physiological processes.

Excretion: Excreted primarily by the kidneys.

Half Life: Dependent on renal function and volume of distribution.

Contraindications

Hyperkalemia, hypernatremia, or hypermagnesemia

Precautions

Monitor serum electrolytes closely during infusion; risk of fluid overload, especially in heart or renal failure.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Phlebitis at infusion site (Occasional)
Electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hyperkalemia, hypernatremia) (Uncommon)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Signs of fluid overload (dyspnea, edema) (Uncommon)
Hypersensitivity reactions (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Other nephrotoxic or electrolyte-altering agents
Loop diuretics may increase risk of electrolyte imbalance

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor vital signs, serum electrolytes, urine output, hydration status.

Diagnoses:

Electrolyte imbalance
Risk for fluid volume overload

Implementation: Administer via infusion pump; monitor site and patient response.

Evaluation: Check serum electrolytes and hydration status regularly; adjust infusion as needed.

Patient/Family Teaching

Report any swelling, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat.
Understand the purpose of electrolyte replacement and the importance of monitoring.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings: N/A

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: Electrolyte solutions can affect serum electrolyte measurements.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Electrolyte disturbances such as hyperkalemia, hypernatremia, hypermagnesemia, fluid overload symptoms.

Treatment: Discontinue infusion, monitor electrolytes, provide supportive care, administer specific antagonists if indicated (e.g., calcium gluconate for hyperkalemia).

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, protected from light.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions until the expiration date.