How do you take Glucose; Sodium Chloride?

This is not something you take by mouth. It is given as a drip (infusion) directly into your vein by a nurse or doctor in a hospital or clinic. The amount and speed of the drip depends on your condition and is decided by your healthcare provider. Do not attempt to administer this at home without a trained health worker.

What are the side effects of Glucose; Sodium Chloride?

Swelling or pain at the drip site, feeling cold during the infusion, mild swelling of hands or feet from excess fluid, slight nausea

Who should not take Glucose; Sodium Chloride?

People with very high blood sugar (uncontrolled diabetes) should use this with caution. People with severe kidney problems, heart failure, or those already retaining too much fluid in their body may not be suitable for this drip. Your doctor will assess you first.

Prescription

Intravenous fluid and electrolyte replenisher

Glucose; Sodium Chloride

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Glucose and Sodium Chloride infusion (also called Dextrose Saline) is a fluid given through a drip into your vein to supply your body with water, sugar (energy), and salt when you are dehydrated or unable to eat or drink properly.

How it works

Provides osmotically active glucose that enters cells via GLUT1 transporters to restore intracellular energy metabolism and blood glucose levels, while sodium and chloride ions restore extracellular fluid osmolality and electrolyte balance to correct hypovolemia and dehydration.

What is it used for?

Dehydration, loss of body fluids (from vomiting, diarrhoea, or fever), low blood sugar, providing energy and fluids during hospital admission, replacing salts and water lost during illness like malaria or typhoid

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Malaria Typhoid Fever Diabetes Diarrhea & Dysentery Nausea & Vomiting Dehydration & Rehydration

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You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

Only receive IV drips in a proper hospital or clinic, never from unqualified people or roadside operators. If you notice swelling at the drip site, pain, or the fluid is not flowing properly, call the nurse immediately. Always make sure the fluid bag or bottle is sealed and clear before it is connected to you.

Common Side Effects

Swelling or pain at the drip site
feeling cold during the infusion
mild swelling of hands or feet from excess fluid
slight nausea

Serious Side Effects

Difficulty breathing or chest tightness (could mean too much fluid)
severe swelling of the body especially the legs and face
high fever or chills during the drip (could mean the fluid is contaminated, so alert a nurse immediately)

Drug Interactions

Certain drugs mixed into the drip may not be compatible with this solution, so always let the doctor know all medicines you are taking. Patients on diabetes medication should be monitored closely because the glucose in the drip can raise blood sugar levels. Drugs like steroids (e.g. dexamethasone) can also increase blood sugar when used alongside this infusion.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when given under medical supervision, but the doctor will decide the right type and amount based on your condition.

Who Should NOT Take This

People with very high blood sugar (uncontrolled diabetes) should use this with caution. People with severe kidney problems
heart failure
or those already retaining too much fluid in their body may not be suitable for this drip. Your doctor will assess you first.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not use if the bag or bottle is leaking, damaged, or if the fluid looks cloudy or has particles floating in it. Keep out of reach of children. In hot Nigerian weather, avoid storing near windows or in overheated rooms.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.