Human Albumin Injection
- Introduction to Human Albumin Injection
- Composition of Human Albumin Injection
- Uses of Human Albumin Injection
- How Human Albumin Injection Works
- Dosage and Administration
- Storage and Handling Precautions
- Side Effects of Human Albumin Injection
- Warnings and Precautions
- Contraindications of Human Albumin Injection
- Interactions with Other Medications
- Administration Considerations for Special Populations
- Overdosage and Management
- Important Handling Precautions
Introduction to Human Albumin Injection
Human Albumin Injection is a sterile, concentrated solution of albumin derived from human plasma. It is primarily utilized in medical settings to restore and maintain blood volume and oncotic pressure in various critical conditions.
The development of human albumin as a therapeutic product began during World War II to address shock and trauma among soldiers. Over time, advancements in plasma fractionation techniques have refined its production and safety standards.
Today, Human Albumin Injection plays a pivotal role in treating conditions like hypovolemia, hypoalbuminemia, and severe burns, among others, showcasing its versatility in healthcare.
Composition of Human Albumin Injection
The active ingredient in Human Albumin Injection is albumin, typically available in concentrations of 5% or 20%. This protein is essential for maintaining plasma oncotic pressure and transporting various substances in the blood.
- Excipients such as sodium, potassium, and stabilizers are included to ensure stability and compatibility.
- The injection is free from any synthetic additives, emphasizing its purity and efficacy.
Available in multiple formulations, it caters to diverse clinical needs, with concentrations tailored for specific conditions and volume requirements.
Uses of Human Albumin Injection
Medical Applications
- Hypovolemia Treatment: Replenishes blood volume during acute fluid loss.
- Management of Hypoalbuminemia: Restores albumin levels in conditions like nephrotic syndrome and liver failure.
- Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery: Supports patients undergoing complex surgical procedures.
- Ascites Treatment: Reduces complications associated with liver cirrhosis.
Critical Care Uses
- Sepsis and Septic Shock: Stabilizes fluid balance in critically ill patients.
- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): Assists in improving oxygenation.
- Burn Management: Replaces protein loss from extensive burns.
Off-Label Uses
- Hemodialysis Support: Mitigates hypotension during dialysis.
- Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Prevention: Alleviates fluid accumulation complications.
How Human Albumin Injection Works
Human Albumin Injection works by replenishing the colloidal pressure in the blood vessels to attract water into the space and counteract hypovolemia and edema issues. It plays a role in regulating permeability to ensure proper circulation flow in cases of significant fluid imbalances. The protein's ability to bind effectively also supports the transportation of hormones, different medications, and various molecules.
Dosage and Administration
Dosage varies based on the condition being treated:
- Hypovolemia: Typically 25g of albumin is administered intravenously.
- Burns and Sepsis: Doses are adjusted according to fluid loss and albumin levels.
Administered via intravenous infusion, the rate depends on the patient’s hemodynamic response. Dosage modifications are crucial for vulnerable populations like neonates and the elderly.
Storage and Handling Precautions
Human Albumin Injection should be stored between 2°C and 25°C, shielded from direct light and freezing.
- Avoid shaking the vial to maintain protein stability.
- Inspect for discoloration or particulate matter before use.
Proper disposal of unused portions is essential to minimize risks associated with contamination.
Side Effects of Human Albumin Injection
Common Side Effects
- Mild allergic reactions such as rash, pruritus, or erythema.
- Localized discomfort at the injection site.
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Anaphylaxis, a life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction.
- Fluid overload leads to pulmonary edema.
Close monitoring during administration can mitigate risks and ensure patient safety.
Warnings and Precautions
Human Albumin Injection must be administered with the utmost care to mitigate potential risks. Adherence to general safety guidelines is paramount:
- Ensure the product is used under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals.
- Inspect the vial for particulate matter or discoloration before administration.
Given its derivation from human plasma, there is a theoretical risk of transmission of infectious agents. Although rigorous screening and viral inactivation methods significantly reduce this possibility, vigilance is essential. During treatment, continuous monitoring of vital signs and fluid balance is required to avert complications like fluid overload or hypovolemia.
Contraindications of Human Albumin Injection
Specific conditions and sensitivities preclude the use of Human Albumin Injection:
- Hypersensitivity: Patients with known allergies to albumin or any component of the formulation should not receive this treatment.
- Fluid Volume Overload: Conditions such as pulmonary edema or congestive heart failure can worsen due to the injection's volume-expanding effects.
Proper assessment of the patient's medical history and current health status is critical before initiating therapy to prevent adverse outcomes.
Interactions with Other Medications
Human Albumin Injection may interact with specific medications, altering their efficacy or safety profiles:
- Anticoagulants: They can potentially amplify the effects of blood-thinning agents, increasing the risk of bleeding.
- Diuretics: Co-administration may complicate fluid balance management.
It can also influence laboratory test results, particularly serum protein levels, leading to possible diagnostic inaccuracies. Additionally, its compatibility with various intravenous fluids should be verified to avoid precipitation or adverse reactions.
Administration Considerations for Special Populations
Elderly Patients
Older people frequently have health issues that require dosage modifications. It's crucial to monitor their respiratory functions during treatment to prevent fluid overload risks from escalating.
Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers
The safety of Human Albumin Injection during pregnancy has been extensive. No harmful effects on development have been noted so far in studies conducted. This medication should only be administered when absolutely necessary. As for breastfeeding mothers the influence of this injection, on the composition of breast milk is deemed insignificant. Nevertheless it is recommended to proceed with caution to ensure the well being of the baby.
Pediatric Patients
When it comes to childrens, medication dosage is based on their weight and overall health status. Newborns and young kids are more prone to side effects, so it's important to keep an eye out for any allergies or imbalances in electrolytes.
Overdosage and Management
An overdose of Human Albumin Injection can result in symptoms such as hypervolemia and pulmonary edema. Immediate recognition of these signs is crucial:
- Dyspnea or shortness of breath
- Elevated blood pressure or jugular venous distension
Management strategies include discontinuing the infusion, administering diuretics to reduce fluid overload, and providing supportive care to stabilize the patient. Long-term monitoring is recommended to ensure full recovery without residual complications.
Important Handling Precautions
Proper handling of Human Albumin Injection is integral to maintaining its safety and efficacy:
- Avoid contaminating the vial during preparation or administration.
- Ensure sterility by using aseptic techniques at all times.
- Label and document every step to ensure traceability and compliance with regulatory standards.
These precautions help preserve the integrity of the product and protect patients from preventable risks.
Human Albumin Injection FAQ
- When albumin injection is given?
- When albumin present in urine?
- When albumin is low?
- What albumin level indicates malnutrition?
- What albumin level is too low?
- What albumin does?
- How does albumin increase blood pressure?
- How albumin maintain oncotic pressure?
- Can albumin pass through glomerulus?
- Can albumin cross the vessel wall?
- Can albumin cause fluid overload?
- Can albumin cross the cell membrane?
- Are albumin and microalbumin the same?
- Are albumin proteins?
- Why albumin is given to liver cirrhosis?
- Why albumin after paracentesis?
- Who need albumin infusion?
- Where albumin comes from?
When albumin injection is given?
It is commonly employed to manage or forestall shock after trauma or surgery by boosting the blood plasma volume.
When albumin present in urine?
Having albumin present in your urine indicates kidney damage or issues with protein levels.
When albumin is low?
Conditions such as liver disease and kidney disease can lead to complications like heart failure and malnutrition. Additionally burns and sepsis are issues that can worsen ones health. Inflammatory diseases and protein-losing enteropathy are also conditions that need attention.
What albumin level indicates malnutrition?
Mild malnutrition is indicated by a range of 1 to 1 g/dL of protein intake per day, while moderate malnutrition falls between 1 and 1 g/dL of protein intake per day; Severe malnutrition is characterized by more than 1 g/dL of protein intake per day.
What albumin level is too low?
Blood is said to have albumin levels when they drop below 3,500 milligrams per liter (mg/L).
What albumin does?
Albumin performs roles such as maintaining the stability of outside cells, transporting progesterone and calcium binding to molecules, and serving as a carrier protein for molecules.
How does albumin increase blood pressure?
Albumin is a protein found in the bloodstream that helps regulate blood pressure by preserving pressure within the system.
How albumin maintain oncotic pressure?
It contains the number of molecules found in the plasma, thus leading to the impact on the plasma oncotic pressure.
Can albumin pass through glomerulus?
Indeed, an amount of albumin goes through the glomerulus; however, the kidney typically reabsorbs it.
Can albumin cross the vessel wall?
Yes
Can albumin cause fluid overload?
Administering albumin quickly can lead to an excess of fluid in the body.
Can albumin cross the cell membrane?
Albumin does not easily pass through the membrane.
Are albumin and microalbumin the same?
Detectable levels of albumin are in the urine. Often referred to as microalbumin. This could potentially indicate the onset of kidney issues as a symptom.
Are albumin proteins?
Yes
Why albumin is given to liver cirrhosis?
Albumin helps to raise resistance and lower inflammation in patients with cirrhosis due to its antioxidant and immune system-regulating qualities.
Why albumin after paracentesis?
Albumin is administered following paracentesis to lower the chances of issues and low sodium levels in the body.
Who need albumin infusion?
Albumin injections are also utilized in managing hypoalbuminemia in individuals with injuries or infections and those suffering from pancreatitis that's not easily reversible despite prior attempts, with nutritional supplements proving ineffective.
Where albumin comes from?
Albumin is a type of protein created in the liver and enters the bloodstream.