Dextrose: Benefits, Risks & Safe Use for Athletes and Beyond

Dextrose can be taken as a supplement to aid bodybuilders and athletes. It can also be administered intravenously to supplement water and calories. Although dextrose is a relatively simple and essential carbohydrate, supplement overdosing can occur.

Identification

• Dextrose, also called glucose, is a simple carbohydrate that is quickly absorbed by the body and rapidly promotes the production of insulin. Therefore, dextrose is considered to have a high glycemic index.

Dextrose Injection

• According to RxList, dextrose can be safely administered in a sterile, nonpyrogenic solution that contains no antimicrobial agents.

Intravenous Benefits

• The intravenous dextrose injection provides essential calories in the form of a simple carbohydrate. The dextrose solution can restore glucose levels in the blood and combats glycogen depletion in the liver.

Side Effects

• Dextrose is a relatively safe supplement, but side effects include swelling of face, arms and legs.

Intravenous Dangers

• Orgyn, a women's health and fertility source, reports that potential dangers of intravenous dextrose injections include overhydration, pulmonary edema and diluted electrolyte levels.

Pregnancy

• Dextrose can be safely given to a pregnant woman. However, reproductive studies have yet to thoroughly explore the possibility of effects on the fetus.