Plasmanate is a specialized medical solution derived from human plasma, designed to address various conditions involving fluid loss. It functions as a plasma volume expander, meaning its primary role is to increase the volume of fluid circulating within the bloodstream. This preparation helps to restore the body’s fluid balance, which can be disrupted by significant medical events. Its composition allows it to effectively support the circulatory system when natural plasma levels are compromised.
Understanding Plasmanate
Plasmanate is a sterile solution classified as a plasma protein fraction, meticulously prepared from human plasma. Its primary constituent is human albumin, which typically makes up a significant majority of its protein content, often ranging from 83% to 90%. The solution also incorporates smaller quantities of globulins and other plasma proteins, all contributing to its therapeutic effects. This medical preparation presents as a clear, amber-colored liquid, resembling natural human plasma.
The fundamental purpose of Plasmanate is to serve as a plasma volume expander, meaning it increases the overall fluid volume circulating within the body’s vascular system. This action is achieved by the osmotic properties of its protein components, which pull fluid from the surrounding tissues into the bloodstream. To enhance safety, the solution undergoes a specific heat treatment at 60°C for 10 hours, minimizing the risk of transmitting certain viral infections. This rigorous preparation ensures the product’s stability and readiness for medical application.
Medical Applications of Plasmanate
Plasmanate finds its primary medical utility in scenarios involving acute loss of circulating blood volume and various forms of shock. It is specifically indicated for the treatment of shock resulting from significant fluid loss due to conditions such as severe burns, extensive crushing injuries, or abdominal emergencies. In these situations, there is a predominant loss of plasma fluids rather than red blood cells, making Plasmanate an appropriate choice for rapid volume restoration. It is also effective in the emergency management of shock caused by hemorrhage, though blood transfusions might be needed later depending on the extent of red blood cell loss.
The product is chosen in these situations due to its ability to rapidly restore blood volume and help maintain oncotic pressure, which is the osmotic pressure exerted by proteins in the blood plasma. By drawing fluid from the interstitial spaces into the bloodstream, it helps to stabilize blood pressure and improve circulation. Beyond acute shock, Plasmanate is also used for fluid replacement during significant medical events like major surgery, severe trauma, and in cases of liver failure or kidney dialysis where fluid balance is compromised. Its application helps restore fluid volume, contributing to the patient’s overall stability and recovery. This capability makes it a valuable intervention in immediate life-threatening circumstances where maintaining adequate circulatory volume is paramount.
How Plasmanate Works and Is Administered
The effectiveness of Plasmanate stems from its high concentration of proteins, particularly albumin, which exerts an osmotic effect within the bloodstream. When administered, these proteins increase the oncotic pressure inside the blood vessels, compelling fluid from the surrounding body tissues to move into the circulatory system. This influx of fluid directly contributes to an increase in blood volume, which in turn helps to elevate blood pressure and improve perfusion to vital organs. The increased blood volume can last for a significant period, potentially up to 48 hours in some individuals, providing sustained support.
Plasmanate is administered intravenously. This ensures its rapid entry into the bloodstream. The rate of infusion can vary based on the patient’s condition and the medical situation, but typically involves careful titration by healthcare professionals. For instance, in adults, a common administration might involve 250-500 mL, equivalent to 12.5-25 grams of protein, infused as needed based on the patient’s response. Medical supervision is required to monitor the patient’s physiological response and adjust the infusion rate accordingly.
Important Safety Considerations
Plasmanate administration requires careful consideration of safety aspects. Patients may experience various side effects, including a drop in blood pressure, allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, or symptoms like shortness of breath and pulmonary edema. Effects include flushing, a rapid heart rate, hives, nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, headache, or back pain. Excessive salivation has also been noted. Medical staff must closely monitor patients for any signs of circulatory overload, particularly during rapid infusions, to avoid circulatory overload.
There are specific conditions where Plasmanate should not be used. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to albumin, severe anemia, or certain types of heart failure. It is also generally avoided in hypoproteinemia linked to chronic conditions like nephrosis, cirrhosis, or malnutrition. Since Plasmanate is derived from human plasma, there is a low risk of transmitting infectious agents, such as viruses or the Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) agent. However, this risk is significantly mitigated through rigorous donor screening, testing for viral infections, and inactivation and removal processes during manufacturing.