Albumin

• Albumin

• Plasbumin 5% & 25%

Classification:

• Plasma volume expander

Mechanism of Action:

• Albumin is the main protein in human blood and the key to the regulation of the osmotic pressure of blood. Chemically, albumin is soluble in water, precipitated by acid, and coagulated by heat
  • Albumin 5%
    • Is oncotically equivalent volume for volume to normal human plasma and will allow expansion of the blood volume equal to the volume infused (if patient is hydrated)
  • Albumin 25%
    • Has an oncotic effect in which an additional fluid is drawn from the extra cellular tissues into circulation within 15 minutes. Blood viscosity and hemo concentration is reduced, while total blood volume increases making Albumin 25% a key plasma volume expander (3-4 times)

Indications:

• Emergency treatment of:
  • Hypovolemic shock
  • Burn therapy
  • Cardiopulmonary bypass
  • Acute liver failure
• Volume deficit consider Albumin 5%
• Oncotic deficit consider Albumin 25% along with appropriate crystalloid solution

Contraindications:

• Hyperhydration
• Pulmonary edema
• Severe anemia
• Heart failure
• Hypersensitivity

Precautions:

• Albumin should be slowly IV so that a rapid oncotic change does not occur and potentially create a fluid overload

Adverse Effects:

• Shaking
• Chills
• Urticaria
• Severe anemia
• Heart failure

Dose:

• 500 ml of Albumin 5% q 30 min IV, PRN

• IV

• Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS)
• Pharmacology for the Prehospital Professional 2^nd Edition