Absorption
Bioavailability: Since the solution is administered intravenously, its bioavailability is 100%.
Distribution
On infusion glucose is first distributed in the intravascular space and is then taken up into the intracellular space. In adults, the concentration of glucose in the blood is 60 – 100 mg/100 mL, or 3.3 - 5.6 mmol/L (fasting).
Biotransformation
In glycolysis, glucose is metabolized to pyruvate. Under aerobic conditions pyruvate is completely oxidized to carbon dioxide and water. In case of hypoxia pyruvate is converted to lactate. Lactate can be partially re-introduced into the glucose metabolism (Cori cycle).
Elimination
The final products of the complete oxidation of glucose are eliminated via the lungs (carbon dioxide) and the kidneys (water).