Is dextrose an isotonic or hypotonic solution?

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SUMMARY

5% dextrose is isotonic outside the body, while 10% dextrose is hypertonic. When considering the metabolic effects once inside the body, both 5% dextrose and 10% dextrose become hypotonic, while a mixture of 5% dextrose and normal saline is isotonic. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the tonicity of solutions in clinical settings, particularly when determining which solution to use based on their behavior inside the body.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of isotonic, hypertonic, and hypotonic solutions
  • Knowledge of dextrose concentrations (5% and 10%)
  • Familiarity with normal saline solution
  • Basic principles of metabolism and fluid dynamics in the human body
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the metabolic pathways of dextrose in the human body
  • Study the clinical applications of isotonic vs hypertonic solutions
  • Learn about the effects of different IV fluids on patient hydration
  • Explore guidelines for selecting intravenous solutions in medical practice
USEFUL FOR

Healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and physicians, who need to understand the implications of intravenous fluid therapy and the tonicity of solutions used in patient care.

sameeralord
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Hello everyone,

1. I know 5% dextrose is isotonic outside body
2. Also 10% dextrose is hypertonic outside body
3. Also (5% dextrose + Normal saline) is also hypertonic

However if we consider that once inside the body all dextrose gets metabolised by body, leaving only water.
Then once inside the body these become

1.Hypotonic
2.Hypotonic
3. Isotonic

Respectively.

Then if a question comes about the tonicity of these solutions. Which one should I pick for example (5% dextrose + Normal saline) , I choose hypertonic or isotonic for that one.

Thanks :smile:
 
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It would probably take a relatively long time for the glucose to be metabolized enough to change is concentration significantly.
 

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