Drug reference
dextran-70
Plasma expander, Polysaccharide · Plasma expander
Plasma expander, PolysaccharidePlasma expander
CDSCO approved
EXCRETION
—
not curated
INTERACTIONS
—
none in our sources
PREGNANCY
—
not curated
Mechanism
Dextran-70 is a polysaccharide that exerts oncotic pressure, expanding plasma volume when infused. It functions as a plasma substitute, helping to retain fluid within the vascular compartment.
Indications
Hypovolemia due to loss of plasma/blood (as substitute for plasma)Burns (acute phase only)Hypovolemic and endotoxin shockSevere trauma and extensive tissue damageTemporary measure in cases of whole blood loss
Pharmacokinetics
Duration
Expands plasma volume for nearly 24 hours
Metabolism
Oxidized in the body over weeks. Some amount is deposited in RE cells.
Excretion
Slowly excreted by glomerular filtration
Contraindications
- Hypofibrinogenaemia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Presence of bleeding
- Severe anaemia
- Cardiac failure
- Pulmonary edema
- Liver disease
- Renal insufficiency
Side effects
Common
UrticariaItchingBronchospasmFall in BP (occasionally)
Serious
- Anaphylactic shock (rare)
Related guidelines
Other Plasma expander, Polysaccharide drugs
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Sources: KD Tripathi 7e·Verified: 2026-05-10 · House clinical team