From the FDA Drug Label
Dextrose, USP is chemically designated C6H12O6 ∙ H2O (D-glucose monohydrate), a hexose sugar freely soluble in water. The term Dextrose (D-glucose) 94 is not explicitly defined in the provided drug labels. Since the labels do not directly address the question, no conclusion can be drawn about the meaning of Dextrose (D-glucose) 94 in SI units 1.
From the Research
Dextrose 94 in SI units is 94 mg/dL, which converts to 5.2 mmol/L. This blood glucose level falls within the normal range for a fasting blood glucose test, which is typically between 3.9-5.6 mmol/L (70-100 mg/dL) 2. A value of 5.2 mmol/L indicates normal glucose metabolism and does not suggest either hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
The International System of Units (SI) uses millimoles per liter (mmol/L) as the standard unit for measuring blood glucose, while the conventional unit used in the United States is milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) 3. The conversion factor between these units is 18, meaning that to convert from mg/dL to mmol/L, you divide by 18. Understanding your glucose level in SI units is important for international medical communication and for patients who receive care in countries using the metric system.
Some key points to consider when evaluating dextrose levels include:
- The normal range for fasting blood glucose in SI units is between 3.9-5.6 mmol/L (70-100 mg/dL) 4
- Dextrose 94 in SI units is within the normal range and does not require immediate medical intervention or treatment 5
- The use of 10% dextrose versus 50% dextrose for the treatment of hypoglycemia has been studied, with some evidence suggesting that 10% dextrose may be as effective as 50% dextrose with fewer adverse events 6
Overall, a dextrose level of 94 mg/dL, or 5.2 mmol/L, is within the normal range and does not indicate any abnormality in glucose metabolism.