Dextran 6%+5% (IV Infusion)

Indications

• Thromboembolic disorders
• Hypovolaemic shock
• Pulmonary embolism
• Venous thrombosis

Pharmacology

• Expansion of plasma volume
• Reduction of blood viscosity
• Inhibition of red blood cell sludging/aggregation
• Source of calories and water for hydration
• Reduction of body protein and nitrogen loss
• Promotion of glycogen deposition in the liver
• Stimulation of potassium uptake by cells

Dosage

• Adult IV dosage: 10 mL/kg/day for up to 5 days in hypovolaemic shock
• 500 ml initial dose followed by 500 ml on day 2, and subsequently on alternate days up to 10 days for thromboembolic disorders
• Prophylaxis of post-op thromboembolic disorders: 500 ml during or at the end of surgery, repeat dose next day, and continue treatment on alternate days for up to 10 days in high-risk patients
• Child dosage: Up to 5 ml/kg in infants and 10 ml/kg in children

Administration

• Contraindicated in hypersensitivity, severe renal disease with oliguria or anuria, marked cardiac decompensation, and pregnancy

Interaction

• Possible interactions with enzyme inducers (e.g. phenytoin, carbamazepine) and enzyme inhibitors (e.g. cimetidine)

Side Effects

• Congestive heart failure
• Mild hypotension
• Tightness of chest
• Thrombocytopenia
• Anaphylaxis
• Injection site infection/phlebitis
• Acute renal failure
• Acidosis (if NaCl solution used)
• Pulmonary edema
• Wheezing

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy Category - C
• Potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks

Precautions & Warnings

• Caution should be taken during pregnancy

Therapeutic Class

• Plasma expanders

Related Brands

• Dextran 10%+5% (IV Infusion) - institute-of-public-health-iph