Medicine Information

Dextran 40

Name: Dextran 40
Brand: Dextran 40
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Intravenous Infusion10% Dextran 40 in 5% DextrosePlasma Volume ExpandersATC: B05AA03

Generic Name

Dextran 40 in 5% Dextrose Injection

Manufacturer

Generic Manufacturers Worldwide

Country

Global

Loading images...

Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dextran 10 5 injection	N/A	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Dextran 40 in 5% Dextrose Injection is a colloid solution used as a plasma volume expander to restore circulating blood volume in conditions like shock or severe blood loss. It helps improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues.

Uses & Indications

Adjunct in the treatment of shock or impending shock due to hemorrhage, burns, trauma, or sepsis.

Prophylaxis of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing surgery.

Used in vascular surgery to improve microcirculation and prevent thrombus formation.

Dosage

Adults

Initial dose typically 500-1000 mL, administered intravenously at a rate appropriate for the patient's condition. Max dose usually 20 mL/kg/24 hours for no more than 5 days.

Elderly

Lower doses may be required due to age-related decrease in renal function and higher risk of fluid overload. Close monitoring is essential.

Renal_impairment

Contraindicated in severe renal impairment. In mild to moderate impairment, use with extreme caution and reduce dosage significantly to avoid fluid overload and acute kidney injury.

How to Take

Administered by intravenous infusion only, usually through a central or peripheral venous catheter, under strict medical supervision. The rate of infusion should be carefully controlled.

Mechanism of Action

Dextran 40 is a polysaccharide that exerts an oncotic pressure similar to albumin. When administered intravenously, it draws fluid from the interstitial space into the intravascular compartment, thereby increasing plasma volume. It also reduces blood viscosity and inhibits platelet aggregation, improving microcirculation.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Immediate.

Excretion

Primarily renal excretion (unchanged Dextran and hydrolysis products). Some elimination via the gastrointestinal tract.

Half life

Approximately 2-6 hours, depending on molecular weight and renal function.

Absorption

Administered intravenously, hence 100% bioavailability.

Metabolism

Partially hydrolyzed by dextranase into smaller molecules, which are then excreted or metabolized.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Dextran or any component of the formulation.
Severe bleeding disorders (e.g., thrombocytopenia, hypofibrinogenemia).
Severe renal impairment with oliguria or anuria.
Severe congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema.
Known allergy to corn products (due to dextrose).

Drug Interactions

Nephrotoxic drugs

Increased risk of renal impairment, especially in patients with pre-existing renal compromise.

Other plasma volume expanders

Concurrent use may increase the risk of volume overload and electrolyte imbalance.

Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin)

May potentiate anticoagulant effects and increase the risk of bleeding due to Dextran's antiplatelet effects and interference with coagulation factors.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C), protect from freezing. Do not use if solution is cloudy or contains particulate matter.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include volume overload, congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, and acute renal failure. Treatment involves immediate discontinuation of the infusion, symptomatic and supportive care, and possibly diuresis or dialysis if renal failure is severe.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed and the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Limited data are available regarding its excretion in breast milk; use with caution in lactating mothers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

500 mL solution for infusion250 mL solution for infusion

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, when stored properly.

Availability

Hospitals and Pharmacies

Approval Status

Globally Approved

Patent Status

Generic

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Dextran 40 has been extensively studied and is a well-established therapy for plasma volume expansion and microcirculation improvement, supported by numerous clinical trials over decades.

Lab Monitoring

Renal function tests (BUN, creatinine, urine output)
Coagulation parameters (PT, aPTT, bleeding time)
Electrolytes (sodium, potassium)
Hematocrit and hemoglobin
Blood pressure and central venous pressure

Doctor Notes

Careful monitoring of fluid balance, electrolytes, renal function, and coagulation parameters is essential during and after Dextran 40 infusion.
Always have emergency treatment for anaphylaxis readily available.
The use of Dextran 40 should be weighed against the risks of volume overload, especially in patients with cardiac or renal compromise.

Patient Guidelines

This medication will be administered by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting.
Report any discomfort, itching, rash, or breathing difficulties immediately during or after infusion.
Inform your doctor about any pre-existing kidney, heart, or bleeding disorders.

Missed Dose Advice

This medication is typically administered in a hospital setting by healthcare professionals for acute conditions. Missed doses are not applicable as administration is precisely controlled based on the patient's immediate needs.

Driving Precautions

Not applicable, as patients receiving Dextran 40 injection are typically hospitalized and not in a condition to drive.

Lifestyle Advice

Not applicable, as this is an acute intravenous medication typically used in emergency or surgical settings.
Patients should follow all post-treatment instructions from their healthcare provider.