Albumin 20% CSL Ingredients and Usage

The active substance is Human Albumin. The 20% concentration means the solution is hyperoncotic, exerting an osmotic pressure about four times that of normal human plasma.

Albumin 20% CSL 50 mL is clinically indicated for:

• Hypoalbuminemia Correction: Treating severe deficiency of protein in the blood resulting from liver cirrhosis, nephrotic syndrome, or significant protein-losing enteropathies.
• Volume Expansion in Critically Ill Patients: Providing rapid, concentrated plasma volume restoration in situations of hypovolemic shock, often used when patients are fluid-restricted.
• Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia: Used in exchange transfusions to bind and remove excess bilirubin in jaundiced newborns.

How Does Albumin 20% CSL Work?

The primary therapeutic effect of Albumin 20% is achieved through its potent effect on the Colloid Oncotic Pressure (COP). The mechanism relies on its high concentration:

1. Osmotic Gradient: The high 20% concentration creates a steep osmotic gradient between the blood vessels and the surrounding tissues.
2. Interstitial Fluid Mobilization: This gradient causes a strong osmotic pull, drawing 3 to 4 times the infused volume of fluid from the interstitial space back into the circulation.
3. Blood Volume Increase: This effectively leads to a rapid and sustained increase in circulating blood volume and blood pressure. The 50 mL vial provides a concentrated dose to achieve this critical fluid mobilization efficiently.

Albumin 20% CSL Side Effects and Warnings

Given its powerful effect on fluid balance, patients must be continuously monitored during and after administration. Side effects are often related to either fluid shifts or allergic responses. Common side effects may include:

• Flushing, rash, or mild urticaria (hives)
• Mild fever or chills
• Nausea, vomiting, headache

Serious Warnings and Precautions:

1. Circulatory Overload Risk: The hyperoncotic nature of the 20% solution means that rapid infusion can lead to rapid and dangerous Hypervolemia (fluid overload). This may cause life-threatening complications such as Pulmonary Edema or exacerbation of heart failure. The rate of infusion must be carefully titrated based on the patient’s cardiac and renal status.
2. Allergic Reactions: Severe systemic allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, are possible. The infusion should be stopped immediately if breathing difficulties or signs of anaphylaxis occur.
3. Infectious Risk: Despite rigorous donor screening and effective viral inactivation and removal steps (e.g., pasteurization), the theoretical risk of transmitting infectious agents from a human plasma-derived product cannot be fully eliminated.

Albumin 20% CSL 50 mL Storage Conditions

Albumin 20% CSL is a sterile solution that requires controlled storage:

• Store the unopened container at a temperature not exceeding 30°C (86°F). Do not store in temperatures above this range. Refrigeration (2°C to 8°C) is also acceptable but not always mandatory. Do not freeze.
• Protect from Light: Keep the vial or bottle in the original carton to protect the solution from bright light.
• Visual Check: The solution should be clear and slightly viscous, appearing colorless to amber. Do not use if the solution is turbid, cloudy, or contains particulate matter.
• Immediate Use: This product contains no preservatives. Once the seal is opened, the entire volume should be administered immediately, and any residual solution must be discarded.