Dextrose: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Dextrose is a glucose (sugar) solution given by drip. It is a prescription medicine used for low blood sugar, dehydration, fluid replacement and energy replacement. In Pakistan it is available as infusions and injections, made by 4 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Dextrose works
Dextrose is a form of glucose, the body's main fuel. Once it enters the bloodstream it raises blood sugar and is taken up by cells for energy. As the glucose is used up, the water in the solution is left behind to help restore the body's fluid levels.
What is Dextrose used for?
- Low blood sugar
- Dehydration
- Fluid replacement
- Energy replacement
Dextrose is a sterile sugar solution given into a vein, usually in hospital or a clinic. It is used to raise blood sugar quickly in people with hypoglycaemia, to replace fluid in people who are dehydrated or cannot drink, and to provide a simple source of energy when someone is unable to eat. Some strengths are also used to dilute other injectable medicines.
Side effects of Dextrose
Dextrose is generally well tolerated when given carefully. Possible effects include:
- Pain or irritation at the drip site
- Redness or swelling along the vein
- High blood sugar
- Passing more urine
- Swelling from too much fluid
Tell the nurse or doctor at once if you notice breathlessness, marked swelling, headache with confusion or drowsiness, or severe pain, swelling or blistering where the drip goes in.
Precautions and warnings
- It is given in a hospital or clinic by trained staff, who will monitor your blood sugar, salts and fluid balance.
- Tell the team if you have diabetes, as your blood sugar may need closer checking.
- Let them know about any heart, kidney or liver disease, since the amount of fluid you receive may need to be limited.
- Tell the team about any allergies, including to corn products, and about all other medicines you take.
- Concentrated solutions can irritate veins, so report any pain at the drip site promptly.
Frequently asked questions about Dextrose
What is the price of Dextrose in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Dextrose products currently in stock range from Rs 26 to Rs 205 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Dextrose Injection 25ml at Rs 26. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Dextrose are available in Pakistan?
Dextrose is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Pladex-5 (Otsuka), Dextron (CCL Pharmaceuticals Ltd) and Dextrose (A & J Company).Do I need a prescription for Dextrose?
Yes. Dextrose is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Are all Dextrose brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Dextrose in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Dextrose brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 4 products containing Dextrose from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
