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
Safety
Blood pressureCVP if availableCoagulation (PT, aPTT)Urine outputPCV/TS
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.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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.
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