What is Dextran (high molecular weight) ?
Dextran, of high molecular weight, is a natural source of glucose (sugar). Dextran works by replacing blood plasma that has been lost due to severe bleeding. Severe blood loss may cause organ damage, brain injury, coma, and even death. The plasma is required to circulate the red blood cells, which deliver oxygen all over the body. Dextran can be used to treat hypovolemia, which is a decrease in the volume of blood plasma circulating. This condition may result from trauma, surgery, burns, or severe injuries. Dextran can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.
Side effects of Dextran (high molecular weight)
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy reaction, seek emergency medical attention: skin rash or hives; stuffy or runny nose; coughing; chest tightness or feeling as if you may pass out.
If you:
- Weak or shallow breathing
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
Dextran side effects may include:
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Joint pain
- Fever;
- Pain, swelling, or bruises along the vein where medicine has been injected
There may be other side effects.Call your physician immediately if experiencing symptoms that concern you; report side effects by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
Tranexamic Acid, Zoladex, Goserelin, Cyklokapron, Dextran (70% in 5% Dextrose, and Aprotinin
Warnings
This medication should not be taken if there is severe renal disease, congestive heart failure, or bleeding that cannot be controlled.
Before you take this drug
This medication should not be given to you if dextran is an allergen or you have a history of allergies.
- Severe kidney disease
- Severe congestive heart failure;
- Uncontrolled bleeding
Tell your doctor, if possible, before receiving dextran if:
- Liver or kidney disease
- A bleeding disorder or blood-clotting disorder, such as hemophilia (easily bruising and bleeding);
- Fluid retention, heart disease
- Asthma or respiratory problems
- Diabetes;
- Epilepsy, seizures, or migraine headaches;
- A stomach or intestinal problem;
- Food or drug allergies;
- If you're on a diet low in salt,
It may be impossible to inform your caretakers about your medical conditions in an emergency. Be sure that any doctors who care for you in the future know you've taken this medication. FDA pregnancy class CThere is no information on whether dextran of high molecular weight will cause harm to an unborn child. If you're pregnant, tell your doctor. There is no way to know if high-molecular-weight dextran can pass into breast milk or harm nursing babies. You should tell your doctor that you are breastfeeding a child. It may be impossible to inform your caregivers that you are breastfeeding or pregnant in an emergency. Be sure to tell any doctor who is caring for you or your child that this medicine has been given.
How to take Dextran (high molecular weight)?
The medicine is administered through an intravenous route. This injection will be given by a healthcare professional. If you experience any pain or discomfort around the needle, tell your healthcare provider. While you receive high-molecular-weight dextran, your breathing, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be closely monitored. Your kidney function as well as other vital indicators may also need to be checked. You will need daily blood tests and chest x-rays during your treatment.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You are unlikely to miss any doses of dextran because you'll be receiving it in a clinic setting.
What happens if I overdose?
If your doctor recommends any restrictions in terms of foods, drinks or activities for you to consume or participate in, be sure to heed their orders.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions on foods, drinks, or activities, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
You should tell your doctor about any medicines that you are taking, including those that you stop or start using, during treatment with dextran high molecular weight.
- Medicines used to treat blood clots include dabigatran (dalteparin), enoxaparin (fondaparinux), tinzaparin, and others.
The list below is not exhaustive. There are other drugs that may have an interaction with dextran's high molecular weight, such as vitamins and herbs. This medication guide does not list all interactions.
