Gelofusine Dosage/Direction for Use

Dosage and infusion rate are adjusted according to individual needs and are controlled by monitoring the usual circulatory parameters, e.g. blood pressure.
In order to avoid the occurrence of anaphylactoid/anaphylactic reactions described under Adverse Reactions, the first 20 - 30 ml should be infused slowly and under careful observation of the patient.
Recommended doses: For compensation of minor losses of blood or plasma as well as for pre- and intraoperative routine prophylaxis, as a rule, 500 - 1000 ml of Gelofusine will be required, being infused over 1 - 3 hours.
For compensation of major losses of blood or plasma, the average dose is between 1000 and 2000 ml.
In emergency situations or shock conditions, an initial dose of 500 ml may be administered by forced infusion over 5 - 10 min, using a pressure cuff or an infusion pump. Before starting infusion, the solution should be warmed to max. 37 °C. After stabilisation of the cardiovascular situation, the infusion can be continued with doses corresponding to the actual losses of blood or plasma. In this case, the amount of solution infused may be as much as 10 - 15 l/24 h. (Monitor haematocrit)
In isovolaemic haemodilution, the amount of infused solution corresponds to the withdrawn plasma volume. As a rule, a dose of 20 ml/kg BW should not be exceeded.
The amount of Gelofusine required during extracorporal circulation depends on the system used. Normally, volumes between 500 and 1000 ml are required.
Maximum daily dose: The therapeutic limit is dependent on the dilution effect. If the haematocrit falls below 25 % (in patients at cardiovascular or pulmonary risk, below 30 %), substitution of erythrocytes or full blood should be considered.
Maximum infusion rate: The maximum infusion rate depends on the actual cardio-circulatory situation.
Method of administration: Gelofusine is administered intravenously. Only solutions that are clear and free of precipitate should be infused.
Units once prepared ready for infusion must be used within the following 4 hours. Unused portions of the solution must not be stored for later use.