Does PlasmaLyte (multiple electrolyte solution) contain dextrose?

PlasmaLyte Does Not Contain Dextrose

Standard PlasmaLyte does not contain dextrose (glucose). 1

Composition of PlasmaLyte

PlasmaLyte is a balanced crystalloid solution with the following characteristics:

• Contains 0 g/dL of glucose, as clearly indicated in clinical practice guidelines 1
• Contains electrolytes that closely mimic human plasma: sodium (140 mEq/L), potassium (5 mEq/L), chloride (98 mEq/L), magnesium (3 mEq/L) 1
• Includes acetate (27 mEq/L) as a buffer 1
• Has an osmolarity of 294 mOsm/L, making it near-isotonic 1

Important Clinical Considerations

Availability of PlasmaLyte Formulations

• Standard PlasmaLyte (also known as PlasmaLyte 148 or Multiple Electrolytes Injection, Type 1 USP) does not contain dextrose 1, 2
• PlasmaLyte with 5% dextrose is not available in the United States from Baxter Healthcare Corporation 1
• In some regions outside the US, PlasmaLyte formulations with glucose may be available 3

Clinical Applications

• PlasmaLyte is commonly used as an isotonic maintenance fluid or resuscitation fluid 1
• When glucose administration is needed alongside PlasmaLyte, separate dextrose-containing solutions must be administered 4
• For pediatric patients requiring both isotonic fluids and dextrose, clinicians must use alternative solutions since PlasmaLyte with dextrose is not available in the US 1

Compatibility Considerations

• When dextrose is needed with electrolytes, PlasmaLyte 148 with 5% glucose (PLA-G) has been studied for compatibility with various critical care medications 5
• PlasmaLyte (without dextrose) is compatible with blood products, unlike calcium-containing solutions such as Ringer's lactate 6

Clinical Decision-Making Algorithm

1. If a balanced electrolyte solution without dextrose is needed:

   • Use standard PlasmaLyte 1, 2

2. If both balanced electrolytes and dextrose are required:

   • In the US: Use separate administration of PlasmaLyte and dextrose solution, or choose an alternative solution like D5 lactated Ringer's 1
   • Outside the US: Check for availability of PlasmaLyte with dextrose formulations 3

3. For pediatric maintenance fluids:

   • Follow AAP guidelines recommending isotonic solutions with appropriate potassium chloride and dextrose 1, 4
   • Since PlasmaLyte with dextrose is unavailable in the US, consider alternatives like D5 0.9% NaCl or D5 lactated Ringer's 1

Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not assume PlasmaLyte contains dextrose - standard formulations in the US contain 0 g/dL glucose 1
• When administering PlasmaLyte to patients requiring glucose (e.g., pediatric patients, diabetic patients at risk for hypoglycemia), remember to provide dextrose through another route 1, 4
• Be aware that PlasmaLyte contains magnesium, which may affect peripheral vascular resistance and heart rate in some patients 2