Dextran

Dextran is a synthetic colloid composed of glucose polymers and used for intravascular volume expansion. Dextran 40 and dextran 70 differ in average molecular size and circulatory persistence. Its veterinary role is short-term support of circulating volume in selected hypovolemic patients during resuscitation.

Group

Synthetic colloid

Mechanism of Action

Dextran molecules increase plasma colloid osmotic pressure while they remain within the vasculature. This favors retention of infused water and movement of fluid from the interstitial compartment into the circulation, expanding plasma volume and supporting venous return. The magnitude and duration of expansion depend on molecular size, endothelial permeability and elimination of the polymer.

Dose Rates

Dog

Use / stage	Dose	Route	Schedule	Instructions
Volume expansion	Reference only	IV		10–20 mL/kg/day to effect, usually over 30–60 minutes. The narrative also describes slower 60–90-minute delivery and faster emergency boluses of 20 mL/kg. Concentration-specific fluid protocol; schema does not support mL/kg.

Cat

Use / stage	Dose	Route	Schedule	Instructions
Volume expansion	Reference only	IV		5–10 mL/kg/day over 30–60 minutes; monitor closely for overload.

Horse

Use / stage	Dose	Route	Schedule	Instructions
Volume expansion	Reference only	IV		10 mL/kg/day. Product concentration and fluid-rate calculations are not represented by the current mass-dose schema.

Cattle

Use / stage	Dose	Route	Schedule	Instructions
Volume expansion	Reference only	IV		10 mL/kg/day. Product concentration and fluid-rate calculations are not represented by the current mass-dose schema.
Calf hypertonic colloid resuscitation	Reference only	IV		Diarrheic calves: 6% dextran 70 in 7.2% sodium chloride, 4–5 mL/kg over 4–5 minutes once only, immediately followed by isotonic oral electrolytes or IV isotonic fluid. Repetition risks hypernatremia. The source compounding directions omit the starting bag volume, so they are not reproduced as a complete recipe.

Indications

Short-term intravascular volume expansion in selected dogs, cats and other veterinary patients with hypovolemia.
Adjunctive restoration of circulating volume in selected patients with hypovolemic shock, within a broader resuscitation plan.

Contraindications

Bleeding tendency
Use cautiously in cats and patients vulnerable to volume overload.

Interactions

May interfere with blood crossmatching.

Adverse effects

Coagulopathy, renal injury and anaphylaxis are recognized concerns

Preparations

Preparation	Form	Strength	Route
Dextran 70 6% in sodium chloride 0.9% Carrier contains sodium chloride 9 mg/mL; a colloid fluid formulation.	Injection	dextran 70 60 mg / mL + sodium chloride 9 mg / mL	IV

Monitoring and Administration

Monitor cardiopulmonary status and infusion response. Obtain crossmatching samples before administration where feasible.

Dextran 40 and 70 differ in molecular weight; the source does not state an exact product concentration.