HAES-STERIL 6%
HYDROXYETHYLSTARCH 200/0.5
What it does
Hydroxyethylstarch is a solution used to help maintain blood volume in patients who have lost a lot of blood or are having surgery.
Commonly used for: low blood volume (hypovolemia), blood loss during surgery, shock
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:40:53 · updated 2026-10-18 02:01:45
About this medicine
Hydroxyethylstarch is a solution used to help maintain blood volume in patients who have lost a lot of blood or are having surgery.
What it treats
- low blood volume (hypovolemia)
- blood loss during surgery
- shock
How it works
It works by increasing the amount of fluid in the blood vessels, which helps to improve circulation.
Who it's for
This treatment is for adults who need help maintaining their blood volume due to various medical conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: hydroxyethylstarch
BNF-referencedHydroxyethylstarch (HES) is a synthetic colloid used as a plasma substitute to expand blood volume in clinical settings. It is particularly utilized in fluid resuscitation to manage hypovolemia due to trauma, surgery, or sepsis. HES is known for its ability to maintain blood volume and improve hemodynamic stability during critical conditions.
Indications
- Hypovolemic shock
- Fluid resuscitation in surgery
- Trauma management
- Sepsis
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing guidance.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidance based on clinical scenario.
Mechanism of action
Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) works primarily by increasing oncotic pressure in the blood vessels, which helps to draw fluid into the vascular compartment. Recent studies have suggested that HES may also reduce capillary leakage, enhancing its efficacy in treating fluid loss.
Pharmacodynamics
Following isovolemic exchange of blood with 500 mL of HES in healthy volunteers, blood volume is maintained for at least 6 hours. This property allows HES to effectively stabilize blood pressure and improve circulation during periods of volume depletion.
Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of hydroxyethylstarch involve its distribution within the vascular system, where it exerts its volume-expanding effects. The half-life and elimination pathways can vary depending on molecular weight and concentration, but it is generally metabolized by amylase and excreted by the kidneys. Its effects can last several hours post-administration.
Contra-indications
- Severe renal impairment
- Severe bleeding
- Hypersensitivity to hydroxyethyl starch or any of its components
- Congestive heart failure
- Active bleeding with a risk of coagulopathy
Adverse effects
- Renal dysfunction
- Anaphylactic reactions
- Pruritus
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fluid overload
Interactions
- May interact with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding
- Caution with other volume expanders
Precautions
- Monitor renal function during therapy
- Use with caution in patients with cardiac or renal impairment
- Ensure adequate monitoring for signs of fluid overload
Pregnancy
Hydroxyethyl starch should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether hydroxyethyl starch is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when hydroxyethyl starch is administered to a nursing woman.
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light. Do not freeze.
Formulations
- Solution for infusion containing hydroxyethyl starch
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: hydroxyethylstarch
PubChem CID 16213095Molecular formula: C22H44O17
Mechanism of action
Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is one of the most frequently used plasma substitutes. Recent studies have indicated that HES may reduce capillary leakage.
Pharmacodynamics
After isovolemic exchange of blood with 500 mL of HES in healthy volunteers, blood volume is maintained for at least 6 hours
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.