dextran

Dextran is a complex branched glucan (polysaccharide) derived from microbial fermentation of sugars such as glucose. It is used clinically as a plasma volume expander to treat or prevent hypovolemia resulting from surgery, trauma, burns or other causes of blood loss. Medicinally it also serves as an antithrombotic agent to reduce blood viscosity and decrease the risk of thrombosis during surgical procedures and microsurgery[1][2][3][4][7]. Ophthalmic formulations are used for temporary relief of dry eye (xerophthalmia)[1][2]. The mechanism of action involves enhancement of microcirculatory blood flow by reducing blood viscosity and inhibiting platelet aggregation and adhesiveness; it also alters fibrin structure making clots more susceptible to lysis[7][8]. In preclinical studies dextran may enhance endogenous fibrinolysis by blocking uptake of tissue plasminogen activator via mannose-binding receptors[2]. Larger molecular weight forms remain longer in circulation providing prolonged colloidal effects[7].

Brand names

HyskonDextran 70 6% in 5% Dextrose high molecular weightMacrodexGentran 70Gentran70Gentran-70Dextran-HMDextran 70 6% in 0.9% Sodium ChlorideDextran 70 6% in 5% DextroseGentranLMDRheomacrodex

Other names

dextran