Used primarily in peritoneal dialysis as a glucose-sparing dialysate solution. It provides a sustained osmotic gradient, enabling prolonged ultrafiltration during long dwell times. This makes it especially effective for patients with ultrafiltration failure or those requiring extended dialysis exchanges. Due to its slow absorption and metabolism, it minimizes glucose exposure and reduces the risk of peritoneal membrane damage over time. Also used in some surgical procedures to reduce postoperative adhesions.