Albumin (Human)

Generic Details

Generic Name

Albumin-Human

Other Names

  • Human Albumin
  • Human Serum Albumin

Drug Class

  • Plasma expanders
  • Colloids

Chemical Formula

N/A

Molecular Weight

Approximately 66.5 kDa

Mechanism of Action

  • Albumin plays a vital role in maintaining colloid osmotic pressure, which helps in regulating the distribution of extracellular fluid volumes.

Indications

  • Treatment of hypovolemia
  • Hypoproteinemia
  • Hypoalbuminemia
  • Burns
  • Hepatic cirrhosis
  • Nephrotic syndrome
  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
  • Cardiopulmonary bypass surgery

Common Dosage Forms

  • Solution for intravenous infusion

Typical Dosage

  • Adults: 25-50 grams intravenously as needed
  • Dosage may vary based on the specific indication and patient's condition

Pediatric Dosage

  • Pediatric dosing is weight-based and determined by the treating physician

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dosing adjustments may be required based on the patient's renal and hepatic function

Side Effects

  • Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis)
  • Fluid overload
  • Transient increase in blood pressure
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Flushing

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to albumin
  • Severe anemia
  • Heart failure with evidence of pulmonary congestion
  • Severe dehydration without electrolyte replacement

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Safety in pregnancy has not been established; use only if clearly needed

Lactation Safety

  • Compatible with breastfeeding, minimal excretion into breast milk

Drug Interactions

  • No significant drug interactions reported

Overdose Symptoms

  • Fluid overload
  • Hypervolemia
  • Pulmonary edema

Antidote for Overdose

  • Discontinue infusion and provide supportive care as needed

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
  • Do not freeze
  • Protect from light

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Rapidly distributed into the intravascular space
  • Distribution: Mainly circulates in the plasma and interstitial spaces
  • Metabolism: N/A
  • Excretion: Primarily excreted unchanged in the urine

Precautions

  • Monitor for signs of fluid overload during administration
  • Use caution in patients with congestive heart failure
  • Do not administer if the solution is turbid or contains particulate matter

Warnings

  • Administer cautiously in patients with severe anemia or cardiac failure