ALBUMIN, HUMAN

A solution containing electrolytes and protein derivatives from plasma, serum, or normal placentas of which at least 95% of the protein is albumin.

Dosage Forms

▼

Solution for intravenous infusion

25%

Uses

▼
  • Severe hypoalbuminaemia associated with hypovolemia and generalised oedema where salt and water restriction with plasma volume expansion are required
  • Adjunct in the treatment of hyperbilirubinaemia by exchange transfusion in the newborn
  • Paracentesis of large volume ascites associated with por tal hypertension

Dose and Duration

▼
All uses
Dose should be individualized depending on severity, patient size and continuous fluid and protein losses

Preparation

▼
  • Dilute with 5% glucose or 0.9% sodium chloride
  • Do not dilute with water for injections to avoid fatal haemolysis in patients

Contraindications

▼
  • Cardiac failure
  • Severe anaemia
  • Hypersensitivity to albumin

Side Effects

▼
  • Hypersensitivity reactions such as urticaria, anaphylaxis
  • Headache
  • Nausea, vomiting, increased salivation
  • Fever
  • Tachycardia, hypotension

Pregnancy

▼
  • Can be used

Breastfeeding

▼
  • Can be used

Storage

▼
  • Store below 30oC. Do not freeze

⚠️ Caution

▼
  • Do not administer through already used infusion set or with simultaneous infusion of protein hydrolysate
  • Administer slowly in cardiac and circulatory disease to avoid rapid rise in blood pressure and cardiac failure.
    Monitor cardiac and respiratory function
  • Correct dehydration during administration
  • Discontinue immediately on suspicion of allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Stop the infusion immediately in case clinical signs of cardiovascular overload (headache, dyspnoea, jugular vein congestion), increased blood pressure, raised venous pressure or pulmonary oedema occur
  • Dilution with water for injections may cause potentially fatal haemolysis in the patient