Clinical Pharmacology
Albumin is a highly soluble, globular protein (MW 66,500), accounting for 70 - 80% of the colloid osmotic pressure of plasma. Therefore, it is important in regulating the osmotic pressure of plasma1,2. Human albumin grifols 20% supplies the oncotic equivalent of approximately 4 times its volume of human plasma. It will increase the circulating plasma volume by an amount approximately 2.5 times the volume infused within 15 minutes, if the recipient is adequately hydrated3. This extra fluid reduces hemoconcentration and decreases blood viscosity. The degree and duration of volume expansion depend upon the initial blood volume.
When treating patients with diminished blood volume, the effect of infused albumin may persist for many hours. The hemodilution lasts for a shorter time when albumin is administered to individuals with normal blood volume.
Albumin is also a transport protein and binds naturally occurring, therapeutic, and toxic materials in the circulation2.
Albumin is distributed throughout the extracellular water and more than 60% of the body albumin pool is located in the extravascular fluid compartment. The total body albumin in a 70 kg man is approximately 320 g; it has a circulating life span of 15 - 20 days, with a turnover of approximately 15 g per day1.
Indications and UsageAlbumin (Human), Human albumin grifols 20% is indicated:
Conditions in which Albumin (Human) use is usually not justified:
Unless the pathologic condition responsible for hypoalbuminemia can be corrected, administration of Albumin (Human) can afford only symptomatic relief. There is NO valid reason for the use of Albumin (Human) as an intravenous nutrient.