Glucose 5% Labesfal (Glucose)

Glucose 5% Labesfal is indicated for several clinical situations where intravenous carbohydrate and fluid support are required.

• Fluid and electrolyte replacement in patients unable to tolerate oral intake.
• Component of parenteral nutrition regimens to provide an energy source.
• Treatment of hypoglycemia when rapid glucose administration is needed.
• Peri‑operative fluid management to maintain blood glucose levels.
• Support in pediatric and critical‑care settings where caloric intake must be controlled.
• Dilution medium for compatible intravenous medications.

Intravenous administration of Glucose 5% Labesfal may be associated with a range of adverse reactions, most of which are related to its glucose content and osmolarity.

Common

• Transient increase in blood glucose levels that may require monitoring.
• Local irritation or phlebitis at the infusion site causing redness or pain.
• Mild nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort.
• Electrolyte shifts, especially a temporary decrease in serum potassium.
• Mild fluid overload in patients with borderline cardiac function.

Serious

• Severe hyperglycemia that can precipitate diabetic ketoacidosis.
• Anaphylactic or severe allergic reaction with rash, bronchospasm, or hypotension.
• Volume overload resulting in pulmonary edema or heart failure exacerbation.
• Metabolic acidosis in patients with impaired lactate clearance.
• Significant electrolyte disturbances such as profound hypokalemia or hypernatremia.

When prescribing Glucose 5% Labesfal, clinicians should observe several precautionary measures to ensure safe use and to minimize complications.

• Monitor blood glucose levels regularly during and after infusion.
• Assess fluid balance and avoid administration in patients with uncontrolled hyperglycemia.
• Use caution in individuals with renal or hepatic impairment due to altered glucose metabolism.
• Evaluate cardiac function before infusion in patients at risk for volume overload.
• Consider pregnancy status; the safety profile in pregnant women is not well established.
• Verify compatibility with other intravenous solutions before mixing.

Glucose 5% Labesfal can interact with other medications or solutions administered intravenously; awareness of these interactions helps prevent adverse events.

Avoid

• Co‑administration with other hyperosmolar glucose solutions, which may increase the risk of hyperglycemia and fluid overload.
• Simultaneous infusion of high‑dose insulin without appropriate glucose monitoring.
• Mixing with acidic or alkaline solutions that can cause precipitation or instability.

Use with caution

• Concurrent use of diuretics, which may exacerbate electrolyte shifts.
• Administration alongside corticosteroids or catecholamines that raise blood glucose levels.
• Co‑infusion with potassium supplements; monitor serum potassium closely.