Hypersensitivity reactions occur rarely. Stop infusion if anaphylactic reaction develops. Monitor myocardial function eg, central venous pressure, arterial pressure & pulse rate; plasma electrolytes, prothrombin time, biochemistry & haematological status. Frequently monitor rate & vol of infusion to avoid circulatory overload. Patients w/ a history of cardiac failure or pulmonary oedema or who have renal insufficiency, severe/stabilised chronic anaemia or are on cardiopulmonary bypass are at special risk of developing circulatory overload. Stop infusion at the 1st clinical signs of circulatory overload (headache, dyspnoea, jugular vein congestion), or increased BP or raised venous pressure associated w/ pulmonary oedema. Not recommended for fluid resuscitation of patients w/ traumatic brain injury. Contains trace amounts of Al (≤200 mcg/L). Al accumulation in patients w/ chronic renal insufficiency has led to toxic manifestations eg, hypercalcaemia, vit D refractory osteodystrophy, anaemia & severe progressive encephalopathy. May contain infectious agents & still potentially transmit disease. Consider vaccination for patients in receipt of medicinal products from human plasma. Pregnancy & lactation. Childn. Elderly.
Albumex 5 Associated w/ hypotension. May contain some bound bilirubin & result in elevated serum bilirubin in some patients.
Albumex 20 BP monitoring is recommended during administration. Can aggravate myocardial depression when present in patients w/ shock. Reports of paradoxical effect of refractory oliguria in burns patients. Must be given w/ or followed by crystalloid soln in the presence of dehydration. Patients w/ Na-restricted diet.