This medication is used for the treatment of thromboembolic conditions, hypovolemic shock, pulmonary embolism, and venous thrombosis.

Dextrans help expand plasma volume, lower blood viscosity, and prevent the clumping or aggregation of red blood cells.

Dextrose is a simple sugar that serves as a source of energy and fluid for hydration. It helps minimize the loss of body protein and nitrogen and supports glycogen storage in the liver. When administered with insulin, it enhances the uptake of potassium into cells—particularly in muscle tissue—thereby reducing serum potassium levels

Adult: IV Hypovolaemic shock As dextran 40 (10% soln): 10 mL/kg/day for up to 5 days.

Thromboembolic disorders:

•  As dextran 40 (10% soln): Initial: 500 ml on day 1, followed by 500 ml on day 2 and subsequently on alternate days up to 10 days. Prophylaxis of post-op thromboembolic disorders. 500 ml during or at the end of surgery. May repeat dose next day and continue treatment on alternate days for up to 10 days in high-risk patients.

Child: As dextran 40: Up to 5 ml/kg in infants and 10 ml/kg in children.

Hypersensitivity. Severe renal disease with oliguria or anuria. Marked cardiac decompensation. Pregnancy.

Dextran: 

• may interact with enzyme inducers such as phenytoin or carbamazepine
• and enzyme inhibitors such as cimetidine.

Possible side effects include congestive heart failure, mild hypotension, chest tightness, thrombocytopenia, anaphylaxis, injection site infection or phlebitis, acute renal failure, acidosis (when sodium chloride solution is used), pulmonary edema, and wheezing.

Pregnancy Category: C.
Animal reproduction studies have demonstrated adverse effects on the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. However, the potential benefits may justify the use of this medicine in pregnant women despite the possible risks.

Caution should be exercised when using this medicine during pregnancy.

Plasma expanders.