Dextran

Product Name : Dextran

CAS : 9004-54-0

Molecular Formula : H(C₆H₁₀O₅)_xOH

Molecular Weight : Variable

Product Description : Dextran is a complex, branched glucan (polysaccharide made of many glucose molecules) composed of chains of varying lengths (from 10 to 150 kilodaltons). It is used medicinally as an antithrombotic (anti-platelet), to reduce blood viscosity, and as a volume expander in anemia.

Other medical uses :
1.It is used in some eye drops as a lubricant, and in certain intravenous fluids to solubilise other factors, e.g. iron (=iron dextran).
2.Dextran in intravenous solution provides an osmotically neutral fluid that once in the body is digested by cells into glucose and free water. It is occasionally used to replace lost blood in emergency situations, when replacement blood is not available, but must be used with caution as it does not provide necessary electrolytes and can cause hyponatremia or other electrolyte disturbances.
3.It also increases blood sugar levels.