D50

Medical abbreviation · Pharmacy

D50
Stands forDextrose 50%
CategoriesMedical

D50 stands for Dextrose 50%, a pharmacy abbreviation.

Highly concentrated glucose solution, 25 g in a 50 mL prefilled syringe, given IV push to rapidly reverse severe hypoglycemia in adults. It is also part of the emergency treatment of hyperkalemia alongside insulin.

Example: Unresponsive, glucose 28: D50 1 amp IV push, patient awake within 2 minutes.

Usage notes

Also written D50W. D50 is very hypertonic and can cause severe tissue injury if it infiltrates, so it is given through a reliable, large vein. Children receive D25 or D10 instead, following the "rule of 50" (concentration times mL/kg equals 50). Glucagon or oral glucose are alternatives when IV access is unavailable.

More pharmacy abbreviations

  • CSOS – Controlled Substance Ordering System
  • CSP – Compounded sterile preparation
  • CSTD – Closed-system drug-transfer device
  • D – Decongestant
  • D10W – Dextrose 10% in water
  • D5 1/2NS – Dextrose 5% in half-normal saline
  • D5NS – Dextrose 5% in normal saline
  • D5W – Dextrose 5% in water
  • DIR – Direct and indirect remuneration
  • DPI – Dry powder inhaler
  • DR – Delayed release
  • DS – Double strength

See all 134 pharmacy abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.