From the Guidelines
Drinking D10 (10% dextrose solution) can lead to severe hyperglycemia, electrolyte imbalances, and other adverse effects, and its use should be strictly limited to medical settings under close supervision. The administration of D10 can cause a rapid increase in blood glucose levels, which may be particularly dangerous for diabetic patients 1. Prolonged use or consumption of D10 can lead to fluid shifts in the body, potentially resulting in electrolyte imbalances, such as hyponatremia (low sodium levels) 1. The high osmolarity of D10 may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If administered too quickly intravenously, it can cause phlebitis (inflammation of veins) and tissue damage if extravasation occurs.
Some key points to consider when administering D10 include:
- Monitoring glucose, sodium, and potassium levels carefully to avoid hyperglycemia and electrolyte imbalances 1
- Avoiding rapid administration to prevent a sudden decrease in serum sodium concentration 1
- Providing sufficient free water to allow excretion of the renal osmotic load 1
- Considering the use of isotonic fluids for acute fluid resuscitation in patients in hypovolaemic shock 1
It is essential to note that D10 is typically meant for medical use under supervision, not for regular consumption. The body maintains tight glucose regulation, and introducing concentrated glucose solutions disrupts this balance, potentially stressing metabolic pathways and the pancreas. If you're considering consuming D10 for any reason, consult with a healthcare provider first as there are safer alternatives for hydration and energy needs.
From the FDA Drug Label
ADVERSE REACTIONS Hyperosmolar syndrome, resulting from excessively rapid administration of concentrated dextrose may cause mental confusion and/or loss of consciousness. Reactions which may occur because of the solution or the technique of administration include febrile response, infection at the site of injection, venous thrombosis or phlebitis extending from the site of injection, extravasation and hypervolemia. WARNINGS 50% Dextrose Injection is hypertonic and may cause phlebitis and thrombosis at the site of injection. Significant hyperglycemia and possible hyperosmolar syndrome may result from too rapid administration The physician should be aware of the symptoms of hyperosmolar syndrome, such as mental confusion and loss of consciousness, especially in patients with chronic uremia and those with known carbohydrate intolerance The intravenous administration of this solution can cause fluid and/or solute overloading resulting in dilution of serum electrolyte concentrations, overhydration, congested states or pulmonary edema.
The adverse effects of drinking D10 (Dextrose 10%) may include:
- Hyperosmolar syndrome: causing mental confusion and/or loss of consciousness
- Febrile response
- Infection at the site of injection
- Venous thrombosis or phlebitis
- Extravasation
- Hypervolemia
- Fluid and/or solute overloading: resulting in dilution of serum electrolyte concentrations, overhydration, congested states or pulmonary edema 2 2
From the Research
Adverse Effects of Drinking D10 (Dextrose 10%)
- There are no reported deaths or other adverse events related to D10 administration for hypoglycemia 3
- No adverse events were observed in the D10 group (0/1057) compared to 13/310 adverse events in the D50 group 4
- Theoretical risks of using D50, such as extravasation injury, direct toxic effects of hypertonic dextrose, and potential neurotoxic effects of hyperglycemia, are not applicable to D10 3
- D10 may result in fewer untoward hyperglycemic episodes compared to D50 4
- No significant changes were obtained in blood pressure, heart rate or PEFR after 10% dextrose inhalation, suggesting that D10 may not have significant adverse effects on these parameters 5
- However, it is essential to note that the studies primarily focused on the administration of D10 for hypoglycemia, and the adverse effects of drinking D10 are not explicitly stated 6, 3, 4, 7