What is high-molecular weight dextran?
High-molecular weight dextran is a plasma volume expander derived from natural sources of sugar (glucose). 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. Dextran 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. Dextran is also used to expand the inside of the uterus, making it easier for a doctor to see with a scope during a diagnostic procedure called hysteroscopy. Dextran may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
