From the Research
D5 Lactated Ringer's solution contains 5 grams of dextrose (sugar) per 100 mL of solution, which equals 50 grams of dextrose per liter. This concentration is indicated by the "D5" in the name, where "5" refers to 5% dextrose by weight. Lactated Ringer's solution itself is an isotonic crystalloid fluid containing sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and lactate ions that closely resembles the electrolyte composition of human plasma. The addition of dextrose to Lactated Ringer's provides calories (approximately 170 calories per liter) and makes the solution slightly hypertonic. This combination is useful in clinical settings where both fluid resuscitation and some caloric support are needed, such as in patients who are dehydrated and require some glucose supplementation. The dextrose component is rapidly metabolized in the body, leaving the Lactated Ringer's component to distribute throughout the extracellular space.
Some studies have investigated the effects of dextrose-containing solutions in various clinical settings, including cardiac arrest 1 and elective surgery 2. However, these studies do not provide information on the amount of sugar in D5 Lactated Ringer's solution. Other studies have compared the effects of different dextrose concentrations in treating hypoglycemia 3 and have investigated the identification of sodium bicarbonate in 5% dextrose solutions 4. Despite the availability of these studies, the amount of sugar in D5 Lactated Ringer's solution remains a straightforward calculation based on its definition.
Key points to consider:
- D5 Lactated Ringer's solution contains 5% dextrose by weight
- The solution provides approximately 170 calories per liter
- The dextrose component is rapidly metabolized in the body
- Lactated Ringer's solution is an isotonic crystalloid fluid that closely resembles the electrolyte composition of human plasma
- The combination of dextrose and Lactated Ringer's is useful in clinical settings where both fluid resuscitation and some caloric support are needed.