DrugInfoSys

Dextran

Drug #225

Dextran are polysaccharides used in place of blood or plasma to maintain blood volume and assist capillary flow.

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Primary Characteristics

It is of Semi Synthetic origin and belongs to Polysaccharide.

It is classified in Plasma Volume Expander pharmacological group. It is also classified under Plasma Protein Fractions .

Molecular Weight: 42500 · Solubility in Water: Very soluble · Non-proprietary name: Dextran.

Molecular structure of Dextran

Pharmacokinetics

Elimination: it is metabolised via 2-10%, renal excretion is 50-70%.

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Indications

Dextran is primarily indicated in conditions like Anaphylactic reactions, Conditions associated with peripheral local slowing of the blood flow, Deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, Hypovolaemia, Pulmonary embolism prophylaxis, Short-term blood volume expansion, Thromboembolism, Vascular flow improvement.

Dextran is also indicated for secondary conditions like Toxaemia of pregnancy.

Contraindications

Dextran is contraindicated in conditions like Congestive heart failure, Haemostatic defect, Renal disease with oliguria or anuria.

Dosage

Dextran's dosage details are as follows:

DoseSingle DoseFrequencyRouteInstructions
Adult Dosage
20 ml/kg20 ml/kg—IV InfThe first 10ml/kg (given by raped in infusion) during the first 24 hour.
10 ml/kg10 ml/kgEvery 24hSlow IVMaintenance up to 5 days.
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
10 ml/kg10 ml/kgEvery 24hIV InfusionMaintenance for 5 Days
20 ml/kg20 ml/kg—IV InfusionInitially for first 24 hours
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
No data.

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions
3 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Dextran in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Renal damage , Acute renal failure , Volume overload , Bleeding .

Dextran produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylactoid reactions . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Dextran are Abdominal pain, Nausea & vomiting.

Dextran is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Allergic reactions, Nasal congestion , Nausea, Oliguria, Urticaria, Vomiting , Wheezing .

Warnings / Precautions

Do not administer dextran solution if any reaction occur. Urine output should be observed carefully.Intramuscular injection should not be administered to patient receiving dextran. Patient undergoing bowel surgery or who have pathalogical abdominal conditions and in case of sodium restriction should be treated cautiously with dextran. Dextran is classified as pregnancy category C and should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Interference in Pathology

Dextran may interfere in the diagnosis of Interfere with Blood Compatibility Test .

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Inf
3 %w/v
Inf
5 %w/v

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Eye Drops
0.1 %w/v
Inf
6 %w/v
Sachet
13.5 mg

Storage Conditions

Dextran should be stored Inf, Inj.

Drug Classification

  1. 1.11.1 — Plasma substitutes
  2. 2.21.7 — Other ophthalmologicals

Manufacturers