Last updated: July 29, 2025
Introduction
The demand for intravenous (IV) solutions such as Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% continues to rise in healthcare settings globally. These formulations are critical in fluid and electrolyte management, especially in hospitals, clinics, and emergency care facilities. As pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers seek reliable supply chains, identifying reputable suppliers offering these solutions in plastic containers becomes paramount.
This article provides an exhaustive overview of key suppliers, emphasizing quality standards, regional presence, and regulatory compliance essential for sourcing pharmaceutical-grade Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% in plastic containers.
Overview of Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% Solutions
Dextrose 10% (Dextrose in Water, 10%): An isotonic solution used for caloric support and as a carrier for other medications. It supplies 10 grams of dextrose per 100 mL of solution, primarily used in hospital settings for hydration and nutritional purposes.
Sodium Chloride 0.2%: An electrolyte solution often combined with dextrose in infusion therapy to restore sodium levels and hydrate patients with hyponatremia or electrolyte imbalances.
Both solutions are generally provided in sterile, plastic containers such as bottles or bags made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or non-PVC materials, complying with pharmaceutical manufacturing standards.
Leading Suppliers of Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% in Plastic Containers
1. Baxter International Inc.
Overview: A pioneer in IV solutions, Baxter offers a comprehensive portfolio, including Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride solutions in various container types.
Product Range:
- GLYSET 10% Dextrose in Water (plastic bottles)
- Sodium Chloride Injection USP (0.2%) in compatible plastic containers.
Key Features:
- Manufactured under stringent cGMP standards.
- Global distribution with strong regulatory approvals (FDA, EMA, etc.).
- Focused on patient safety via high-quality sterility and stability.
Regional Presence: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific.
2. B. Braun Melsungen AG
Overview: Renowned for infusion therapy solutions, B. Braun provides Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% solutions in plastic containers.
Product Range:
- Intrapur Dextrose 10% in vial and bottle formats.
- NaCl 0.2% Solution in prefilled containers.
Key Features:
- Certified according to ISO standards.
- Focus on innovative container design to prevent contamination.
- Strong global supply chain.
Regional Presence: Europe, North America, Asia.
3. Fresenius Kabi
Overview: A major provider of IV solutions, Fresenius Kabi supplies these formulations for hospital and clinical use.
Product Range:
- Dextrose 10% solutions (plastic bottles/bags).
- Sodium Chloride 0.2% solutions.
Key Features:
- Emphasis on pharmaceutical-grade excipients.
- Compliance with international pharmacopeias.
- Well-established distribution channels.
Regional Presence: Europe, Asia, North America, Africa.
4. Hospira (A Pfizer Company)
Overview: Specializes in sterile generic injectable medications and infusion solutions.
Product Range:
- Dextrose and Sodium Chloride solutions in plastic containers.
Key Features:
- Stringent quality management systems.
- Approved by multiple health authorities.
- Focus on affordable, high-quality infusion solutions.
Regional Presence: North America, Europe, Asia.
5. Otsuka Pharmaceutical
Overview: A trusted global supplier offering a variety of IV solutions, including Dextrose and Sodium Chloride in sterile plastic forms.
Product Range:
- Dextrose 10% solutions.
- Sodium Chloride 0.2% solutions.
Key Features:
- Emphasis on quality and innovation.
- Global manufacturing capabilities.
Regional Presence: Japan, Europe, North America.
Regulatory and Quality Considerations
Suppliers must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) as mandated by local and international agencies like the FDA (USA), EMA (Europe), and WHO. Quality standards also mandate compliance with pharmacopeias such as USP, BP, or EP.
Container material safety is critical; plastic containers should be inert, non-leaching, and compatible with the solution. Suppliers often provide certificates of analysis (CoA), sterility reports, endotoxin tests, and excipient specifications to ensure compliance.
Emerging Suppliers and Regional Markets
In addition to established multinationals, regional manufacturers are gaining prominence, especially in Asia and Eastern Europe, offering cost-effective alternatives with reliable quality. Examples include:
- Lupin Pharmaceuticals (India)
- Hikma Pharmaceuticals (Middle East/Europe)
- CTS Pharma (Asia)
These regional suppliers are increasingly adhering to international standards, facilitating global procurement.
Supply Chain and Distribution Dynamics
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global pharmaceutical supply chains. Dependence on a limited number of suppliers can lead to shortages. Diversification, rigorous qualification processes, and strategic partnerships are critical strategies for healthcare providers.
Companies investing in flexible manufacturing, robust quality assurance, and regional distribution centers enhance supply reliability for Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2%.
Cost and Procurement Considerations
Pricing varies based on supplier reputation, regional manufacturing costs, container type, and volume. Bulk procurement often yields discounts, but strict compliance with quality standards must remain non-negotiable. Contractual clauses should specify delivery timelines, quality guarantees, and regulatory compliance.
Conclusion
Reliable sourcing of Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% in plastic containers is essential for maintaining uninterrupted clinical operations. Leading global suppliers like Baxter, B. Braun, Fresenius Kabi, Hospira, and Otsuka set the standard in quality, safety, and regulatory adherence. Regional manufacturers also provide competitive options, especially vital during global supply disruptions. Strategic supplier qualification and compliance verification are critical for procurement success.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize suppliers with GMP certifications and international regulatory approvals.
- Evaluate container compatibility, ensuring non-leaching and sterile integrity.
- Diversify supply sources to mitigate risks of shortages.
- Leverage bulk purchasing agreements for cost advantages.
- Continuously monitor supplier performance and compliance for ongoing safety and quality assurance.
FAQs
Q1: What are the critical quality standards to consider when sourcing IV solutions?
A1: Suppliers should comply with GMP, ISO certifications, and pharmacopeial standards such as USP, BP, or EP. Certificates of analysis, sterility, and endotoxin testing are essential documentation.
Q2: Are there regional suppliers for Dextrose 10% and Sodium Chloride 0.2% in plastic containers?
A2: Yes. Suppliers like Lupin (India), Hikma (Middle East), and CTS Pharma (Asia) provide regional options with certified quality aligned with international standards.
Q3: What types of plastic containers are used for these solutions?
A3: Typically, polyethylene or PVC bottles and bags are used due to their inert properties and compatibility with intravenous solutions.
Q4: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the supply of these IV solutions?
A4: The pandemic disrupted global supply chains, emphasizing the importance of supplier diversification, local manufacturing, and strategic stockpiling to ensure continuous availability.
Q5: What factors influence the cost of pharmaceutical IV solutions?
A5: Pricing depends on manufacturing scale, material costs, container type, regional regulations, and procurement volume. Quality certifications also impact pricing.
References
[1] Baxter International. (n.d.). IV Solutions Catalog.
[2] B. Braun Melsungen AG. (n.d.). Infusion Solutions.
[3] Fresenius Kabi. (n.d.). Sterile IV Solutions.
[4] Hospira (Pfizer). (2022). Infusion Solutions Product Range.
[5] World Health Organization. (2021). Guidelines for the Production of Sterile Injectable Drugs.
