Dextrose 5% in water is used to treat low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), insulin shock, or dehydration (fluid loss). Dextrose 5% in water is also given for nutritional support to patients who are unable to eat because of illness, injury, or other medical condition.

How do you administer IV glucose?

Glucose 50% must be administered by the intravenous route; it must not be administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular route. Except in the emergency treatment of severe hypoglycaemia, Glucose 50% should be administered via a central vein after appropriate dilution.

How do you give dextrose IV?

For peripheral vein administration: The solution should be given slowly, preferably through a small bore needle into a large vein, to minimize venous irritation. For central venous administration: Concentrated dextrose should be administered via central vein only after suitable dilution.