Albutein

Indications

Albumin (Human) is a protein solution made from donated human blood plasma. It is used in hospital to restore blood volume in shock, severe blood loss or burns, to treat low blood albumin levels (hypoalbuminaemia) in liver disease, kidney disease or severe illness, during large-volume drainage of fluid from the abdomen (paracentesis) in cirrhosis, during heart bypass surgery and plasma exchange, and in some newborns with severe jaundice.

How It Works

Albumin is the main protein in blood. It acts like a sponge that holds water inside the blood vessels, keeping blood volume and blood pressure up. It also carries hormones, medicines and bilirubin (the yellow pigment that causes jaundice) around the body. Giving albumin draws fluid from the tissues back into the bloodstream and replaces protein that has been lost.

Dosage and Administration

Albumin is given only by a doctor or nurse as a slow intravenous infusion (drip into a vein), usually as a 5% or 20% to 25% solution. The amount and speed are set by the doctor according to the condition, body weight, blood pressure and blood test results. It is given as prescribed.

Interactions

Albumin should not be mixed in the same line with protein hydrolysates, amino acid solutions or solutions containing alcohol. Concentrated albumin should not be diluted with sterile water because this can damage red blood cells; the medical team will use a suitable diluent.

Contraindications

• Previous allergic reaction to albumin or any component
• Severe anaemia or heart failure where extra blood volume could be dangerous, unless the doctor judges it necessary

Side Effects

Most people tolerate albumin well. Possible effects include:

• Flushing, fever or chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Itching or hives
• Fluid overload, with breathlessness or swelling, if too much is given
• Rarely, a drop in blood pressure or a severe allergic reaction

Tell the nurse or doctor straight away if you feel short of breath, have chest tightness, a pounding headache, swelling of the face or throat, a rash, or feel faint during or after the infusion.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Albumin is a natural blood component and is used in pregnancy and breastfeeding when the doctor considers it necessary. The decision is made by the treating doctor.

Precautions and Warnings

• Blood pressure, pulse, breathing and fluid balance are monitored during infusion.
• Extra care is needed in heart failure, high blood pressure, oesophageal varices, lung oedema and severe anaemia.
• Because it comes from human plasma, there is a very small theoretical risk of passing on infections, although donor screening and processing make this extremely unlikely.
• Do not use a solution that is cloudy or has particles.

Overdose

Too much albumin, or giving it too fast, can overload the circulation, causing headache, breathlessness, high blood pressure and fluid in the lungs. The infusion is stopped and the medical team treats the symptoms.

Therapeutic Class

Plasma protein fraction, blood volume expander

Storage

Hospital product: store as directed on the pack, usually below 30°C, protected from light and not frozen. Use immediately after opening.