2-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE

Written By:P. Thirumal ReddyB. Pharm Reviewed By:Dr. Tejashwin AdigaMBBS

Last updated on 31 Mar 2026 | 09:30 AM (IST)

2-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE

Background and Date of approval 2-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE

2-Deoxy-D-Glucose is an antiviral drug used to treat moderate to severe COVID-19. FDA approved it initially on May 8, 2021.

Uses of 2-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE

It is a glucose molecule in which the 2-hydroxyl group gets replaced by hydrogen. It is used to moderate to severe COVID-19. The drug is used as an adjunct therapy.

How is 2-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE administered?

Oral Powder is recommended for use in hospital or institutional setup only. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the treatment. You will be monitored by your healthcare provider while giving this medicine. It is important to keep in mind that this medicine is to be given only in emergency cases. You should not take this medicine without the prescription of the doctor. Check the label for directions before use. The sachet may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.

Side Effects of 2-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE

The Potential side effects of this medicine include increased blood sugar levels, increased risk of GI bleeding, and QTc prolongation. The frequent side effects are not well established.

Warnings

The warnings of this medicine are still being investigated and studied. This medicine is intended to increase the blood sugar levels. Inform your physician if you are a diabetic patient. Increased risk of GI bleeding and QTc prolongation has been reported in patients using this medicine in long-term.

Precautions

Do not take 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose if you are allergic to 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose or any of the other ingredients. Inform your physician if you have liver problems or kidney diseases before initiating the treatment. Notify your doctor if you have been treated with any other drugs for COVID-19. This medicine is intended only for individuals aged 18 years and above. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, nutritional and vitamin supplements, and herbal products. Certain medications interact with 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose and reduce its effectiveness by causing undesirable side effects.

Word of Advice

Store below 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose 30°C. Protect the medicine from light and excessive moisture. Keep the medicine out of reach of children and pets. If you forgot to take the tablet, take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Limited information is available on the use of 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose in patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor. It helps the faster recovery of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. The medicine comes in powder form in a sachet, which is taken orally by dissolving it in water twice daily. However, it should be consumed only on the advice of a doctor. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully, and let your doctor know if you have any other concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1.

What are the storage conditions for 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose?

Store the 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose below 30 degrees C. store it in the original cartoon. Prevent it from excessive moisture and light.

Q2.

Can 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose be given to kidney disease patients?

It is unknown whether 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose can be given in patients with kidney problems. Inform your physician if you have any kidney problems before initiating the therapy.

Q3.

Can 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose be used by diabetic patients?

Diabetic patients should use 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Since it affects glucose metabolism, it may have an impact on blood glucose levels, and careful monitoring is necessary to prevent any potential complications.

Q4.

Can 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose be used in viral infections other than COVID-19?

While initial studies have focused on the potential use of 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose in treating COVID-19, further research is needed to explore its effectiveness against other viral infections. Currently, its application in other viral infections is not well established. Consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Q5.

Is 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose a substitute for COVID-19 vaccination?

No, 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose is not a substitute for COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccination is the primary approach to prevent COVID-19. It is being investigated as a potential therapeutic option to aid in the management of COVID-19 patients, but it does not replace the need for vaccination.

References

Calcium, Global. “2 Deoxy D Glucose Manufacturer in India | CAS 154-17-6 | Global Calcium.” Www.globalcalcium.com, www.globalcalcium.com/products/2-deoxy-d-glucose. Accessed 22 May 2023.https://www.globalcalcium.com/products/2-deoxy-d-glucose
Sahu, KamalK, and Raman Kumar. “Role of 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose (2-DG) in COVID-19 Disease: A Potential Game-Changer.” Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, vol. 10, no. 10, 2021, p. 3548, https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1338_21. Accessed 13 Feb. 2022.https://journals.lww.com/jfmpc/Fulltext/2021/10100/Role_of_2_Deoxy_D_Glucose__2_DG__in_COVID_19.5.aspx

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.

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