Question 1

What is Dextrose 50% used for?

Accepted Answer

Dextrose 50% is indicated for: Hypoglycemia.

Question 2

What routes can Dextrose 50% be administered by?

Accepted Answer

Available routes: IV.

Question 3

Which species have cited Dextrose 50% dosing data?

Accepted Answer

Dextrose 50% dosing in the ExoticRx formulary covers 2 species: Cat (Domestic), Dog (Domestic).

Question 4

Is Dextrose 50% a controlled substance?

Accepted Answer

Dextrose 50% is not federally scheduled as a controlled substance, but is veterinary prescription only in most jurisdictions.

Question 5

What are the warnings or contraindications for Dextrose 50%?

Accepted Answer

Must dilute to 10-12.5% for peripheral IV (phlebitis risk). Hyperglycemia with excessive dosing. Monitor blood glucose frequently.

Question 6

What are the side effects of Dextrose 50%?

Accepted Answer

Must dilute to 10-12.5% for peripheral IV (phlebitis risk). Hyperglycemia with excessive dosing. Monitor blood glucose frequently.

Question 7

How does Dextrose 50% work?

Accepted Answer

Provides glucose for cellular energy metabolism. Corrects hypoglycemia and provides caloric support.

Question 8

What is the constant rate infusion (CRI) dose for Dextrose 50%?

Accepted Answer

Dextrose 50% has 2 CRI dose rules in the ExoticRx formulary, covering Dog (Domestic), Cat (Domestic). See the CRI section on this page for routes, dose ranges, and primary-source citations.

Species	Route	Rate	Indication	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	IV	0.25–0.5 g/kgBolus, then CRI 2.5-5% dextrose in fluids	Hypoglycemia	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	IV	0.25–0.5 g/kgBolus, then CRI	Hypoglycemia	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Species	Route	Dose	Frequency	Evidence	Source
Dog (Domestic)	IV	0.25–0.5 g/kg	Bolus, then CRI 2.5-5% dextrose in fluids	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Cat (Domestic)	IV	0.25–0.5 g/kg	Bolus, then CRI	Strong	Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Dextrose 50%

Drug Class

Routes

Indications

Mechanism of Action

Side effects & warnings

Species with Dextrose 50% dosing data (2 dose rules)

Evidence levels across 2 dose rules

Backed by a published primary source

Constant rate infusion (CRI)

Sample dosing (2 of 2 cited rules)

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