Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Pentaspan, Hespan, HAES-steril
Pentastarch is a synthetic colloid used as a plasma volume expander in the treatment of hypovolemia (low blood volume). It belongs to the class of hydroxyethyl starches (HES), which are derived from amylopectin. Pentastarch increases the osmotic pressure of the blood, drawing fluid into the blood vessels and thereby increasing blood volume. It's crucial to note that pentastarch carries a risk of serious side effects, including kidney injury and bleeding complications, and its use is restricted in certain clinical settings.
For increasing plasma volume in cases of hypovolemia due to hemorrhage, surgery, or other causes.
Pentastarch is associated with an increased risk of acute kidney injury and bleeding complications. It is contraindicated in patients with pre-existing kidney disease, severe heart failure, and bleeding disorders.
Outcome:
Increased risk of kidney injury
Mechanism:
Additive nephrotoxicity
Outcome:
Fluid retention
Mechanism:
Reduced renal function
Outcome:
Reduced absorption of pentastarch
Mechanism:
Altered pH in the stomach
Most likely new formulation: None anticipated (0% confidence)
Due to safety concerns, the likelihood of pentastarch being re-approved for widespread use is low (<5%).
Plasma Volume Expander, Colloid
Hydroxyethyl Starch (HES)