Why intravenous quinine, used in the management of complicated and severe malaria, given with 5% dextrose?
## Core Concept
Intravenous quinine is used in the management of complicated and severe malaria. Quinine can cause significant local irritation and has a high risk of inducing hypoglycemia due to its effect on pancreatic beta cells, stimulating insulin release.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
Quinine given intravenously is often mixed with 5% dextrose to help mitigate the risk of **hypoglycemia**. Quinine stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, which can lead to decreased blood glucose levels. Administering quinine with 5% dextrose helps maintain normoglycemia by providing a glucose load that counteracts the insulin-mediated decrease in blood glucose.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** This option is not provided, but typically, incorrect options might suggest other reasons such as preventing allergic reactions, reducing the risk of quinine resistance, or enhancing quinine solubility, none of which are directly related to the primary reason for using dextrose.
- **Option B:** Similarly, without the specific text of Option B, it's hard to directly refute it, but generally, other options might not accurately address the primary concern of hypoglycemia associated with quinine administration.
- **Option D:** Without the specific details of Option D, the explanation focuses on the fact that providing dextrose is a direct method to manage and prevent hypoglycemia induced by quinine.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that **quinine can cause hypoglycemia** as a side effect, and this is particularly concerning in the context of severe malaria where patients may already be at risk of complications. Therefore, administering quinine with dextrose is a practical strategy to prevent this complication.
## Correct Answer: B. To prevent hypoglycemia.