Non-oncotic properties of albumin. A multidisciplinary vision about the implications for critically ill patients.

Non-oncotic properties of albumin. A multidisciplinary vision about the implications for critically ill patients. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol. 2017 Dec 08;:1-13 Authors: Ferrer R, Mateu X, Maseda E, Yébenes JC, Aldecoa C, De Haro C, Ruiz-Rodriguez JC, Garnacho-Montero J Abstract INTRODUCTION: Effective resuscitation with human albumin solutions is achieved with less fluid than with crystalloid solutions. However, the role of albumin in today's critical care unit is also linked to its multiple pharmacological effects. Areas covered: The potential clinical benefits of albumin in select populations of critically ill patients like sepsis seem related to immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, antibiotic transportation and endothelial stabilization. Albumin transports many drugs used in critically ill patients. Such binding to albumin is frequently lessened in critically ill patients with hypoalbuminemia. These changes could result in sub-optimal treatment. Albumin has immunomodulatory capacity by binding several bacterial products. Albumin also influences vascular integrity, contributing to the maintenance of the normal capillary permeability. Moreover, the albumin molecule encompasses several antioxidant properties, thereby significantly reducing re-oxygenation injury, which is especially important in sepsis. In fact, most studies of albumin administration are a combination of a degree of resuscitation with a degree of maintenanc...
Source: Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol Source Type: research