What is hetastarch?
Hetastarch (hydroxyethyl) is a plasma volume expander derived from natural sources of starch. It works by restoring blood plasma lost through severe bleeding. Severe blood loss can decrease oxygen levels, which can lead to organ failure, brain damage, coma, and possibly death. Plasma is needed to circulate red blood cells that deliver oxygen throughout the body. Hetastarch is used to treat hypovolemia (a decrease in the volume of circulating blood plasma), that can result from severe blood loss after surgery, injury, or other causes of bleeding. Hetastarch also contains electrolytes (sodium, calcium potassium, magnesium) which are minerals essential for many functions in the body, including the brain and nervous system, heartbeat, and fluid balance. Hetastarch may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
