High-molecular-weight polysaccharide (70,000 Da) that provides colloid oncotic pressure within the intravascular space, expanding plasma volume. Remains intravascular for 12–24h. Also reduces blood viscosity and inhibits platelet aggregation.
At a glance
Class
Synthetic Colloid Plasma Volume Expander
Storage
Store at room temperature; do not freeze; discard if crystals form and do not dissolve on warming
Dosing
Used for acute hypovolemic shock, hemorrhagic shock, and plasma volume expansion
Frequency
Over 15–30 min; may repeat to max 20 mL/kg/day
Lower volumes in cats
Frequency
Max 10–20 mL/kg/day
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Blood pressureCVP if availableCoagulation (PT, aPTT)Urine outputPCV/TS
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Dextran 70?
Dextran 70 is a synthetic colloid plasma volume expander used in pets. High-molecular-weight polysaccharide (70,000 Da) that provides colloid oncotic pressure within the intravascular space, expanding plasma volume. Remains intravascular for 12–24h. Also reduces blood viscosity and inhibits platelet aggregation.
›What is Dextran 70 used for in pets?
Dextran 70 is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for acute hypovolemic shock, hemorrhagic shock, and plasma volume expansion; Lower volumes in cats.
›What is the Dextran 70 dose for dogs?
For dogs, Dextran 70 is typically dosed as follows — Used for acute hypovolemic shock, hemorrhagic shock, and plasma volume expansion: 10–20 mL/kg IV Over 15–30 min; may repeat to max 20 mL/kg/day. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Dextran 70 dose for cats?
For cats, Dextran 70 is typically dosed as follows — Lower volumes in cats: 5–10 mL/kg IV Max 10–20 mL/kg/day. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Dextran 70 need a prescription?
Yes. Dextran 70 is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database