Pentastarch Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and more
Pentastarch is an artificial colloid (hydroxyethyl starch derivative). Pentastarch is characterized by presenting five hydroxyethyl groups, which signifies an approximate 50% hydroxyethylation. It is sold under the name Pentaspan by Bristol-Myers Squibb and is used for fluid resuscitation. When administered, pentastarch remains mainly in the circulatory system and hence, it is considered a plasma expander.
| Trade Name | Pentastarch |
| Availability | Prescription only |
| Generic | Pentastarch |
| Pentastarch Other Names | Pentastarch |
| Type | |
| Groups | Approved, Investigational |
| Therapeutic Class | |
| Manufacturer | |
| Available Country | |
| Last Updated: | January 7, 2025 at 1:49 am |
Uses
Pentastarch is a plasma volume expander used as an adjunct in the management of shock due to hemorrhage, surgery, sepsis, burns or other trauma.
The primary intended use of pentastarch is as a substitute for older colloids such as albumin or hetastarch for use in plasma volume expansion.
Pentastarch is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Blood Volume Expansion
Half Life
~2.5 hours.
Elimination Route
As a result of its lower molecular weight and lesser degree of substitution, pentastarch is eliminated from the circulation at a faster rate than hetastarch. Ordinarily, only 10% of an intravenous dose remains after 24 hours, and levels are undetectable after 4 to 7 days. Up to 70% of a dose is excreted in the urine within 24 hours.
