What concentration is commonly associated with dextrose solutions in medical use?

The commonly associated concentration of dextrose solutions in medical use is 5%. Dextrose, a simple sugar, is often used in intravenous fluids to provide nutrition and energy for patients who may not be able to eat or drink normally. A 5% dextrose solution, also known as D5W (dextrose 5% in water), is frequently used in clinical settings because it is isotonic with blood, making it a suitable choice for hydration and maintaining blood glucose levels.

This concentration is widely utilized for its osmotic properties, and it can serve as a maintenance fluid, particularly in patients requiring fluid replacement without excessive electrolyte alterations. Other concentrations of dextrose, while also used in specific situations (such as 10%, 15%, or 7%), are less common for general clinical use, as they can lead to different osmolarity responses and potential complications if not carefully monitored. Hence, 5% is the standard concentration you will often encounter in medical contexts.