From the Research
D5W contains 5% glucose, which means there are 5 grams of glucose per 100 mL of solution, so in 1 liter (1000 mL) of D5W, there are 50 grams of glucose. This concentration is commonly used in intravenous fluid therapy to provide a source of free water and some calories to patients. When D5W is administered, the glucose is metabolized quickly, leaving free water that distributes throughout the body's fluid compartments. This solution provides approximately 170 calories per liter from the glucose content. D5W is isotonic when first administered but becomes hypotonic as the glucose is metabolized, making it useful for treating hypernatremia or providing free water replacement. It's essential to note that D5W alone does not contain electrolytes, so it's not appropriate for replacing electrolyte losses or as a maintenance fluid for extended periods without supplementation. The provided studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 discuss various aspects of dextrose administration, including its use in treating hypoglycemia and hyperkalemia, but they do not alter the basic composition of D5W. The most recent and highest quality study 4 focuses on the effectiveness of interventions for emergency care of hypoglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis, but it does not change the fundamental fact about the glucose content in D5W.
Key points about D5W include:
- 5% glucose concentration
- 50 grams of glucose per liter
- Provides free water and calories
- Isotonic initially, becomes hypotonic as glucose is metabolized
- Useful for treating hypernatremia or providing free water replacement
- Lacks electrolytes, making it insufficient for extended use without supplementation.