Why are people looking for Dextran? Dextran is a polysaccharide that differs from others in that its glucose units are joined together 1:6 glucoside links. The main chain of glucose has short branches at frequent intervals which are probably joined by 1:3 and 1:4 glucoside links. The chains can be composed of about 200,000 glucose units. Many bacteria, like Leuconostoc, can synthesize dextran from sucrose, and this activity is used commercially to obtain dextran.

Dextran 40 is a sterile, nonpyrogenic preparation of low molecular weight dextran (average mol. wt. 40,000) in 5% Dextrose Injection or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection. It is administered by intravenous infusion.

What is dextran 40 used for?

Dextran 40, also known as Tetraspan or Macrodex, is a polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of specific bacteria. It has several medical and industrial applications due to its properties as a plasma volume expander and a stabilizing agent. Here are some common uses:

1. Medical Use: 
   - Plasma Volume Expander: Dextran 40 is often used in clinical settings as a colloid solution to expand plasma volume in patients experiencing hypovolemia (low blood volume), such as those undergoing surgery or trauma treatment.
   - Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism: It may be used to help prevent blood clots in certain surgical patients by improving blood flow.
   - Treating Shock: It can also be administered to manage shock by increasing blood volume and improving circulation.

2. Ophthalmology: 
   - Viscoelastic Agent: It is used during ocular surgeries, such as cataract surgery, to maintain eye shape and provide lubrication.

3. Pharmaceutical Formulations: 
   - Stabilizer: Dextran 40 is sometimes included in drug formulations as a stabilizer for proteins and other sensitive compounds, helping to maintain their effectiveness.

4. Laboratory Use: 
   - Cell Culture: In research, dextran can be used in cell culture media to enhance cell growth and stability.

5. Food Industry: 
   - Additive: It may also be utilized as a food additive for its textural and stabilizing properties.

While dextran 40 is beneficial in these applications, it is important that it is used under medical supervision, particularly in clinical settings, as there can be risks and side effects associated with its use, especially in certain patient populations.