Human albumin is a protein that helps keep fluids in the blood, absorb excess water from tissues and maintain blood volume. Thus, this protein can be used in serious situations, when it is necessary to increase blood volume or decrease swelling, as occurs during severe burns or bleeding.
The best known trade name of this substance is Albumax, however, it cannot be purchased from conventional pharmacies, as it is used only in the hospital at the doctor’s indication. Other names of this medicine include Albuminar 20%, Blaubimax, Beribumin or Plasbumin 20, for example.
- This type of albumin should not be used to increase muscle mass.
- In which case it is recommended to use albumin supplements.
Human albumin is indicated in cases where it is necessary to correct the volume of blood and the amount of fluids in the tissues, such as in the case of:
In addition, it can also be used in newborns and infants, especially in cases of excess bilirubin or decreased albumin following complex surgery. To do this, it should be administered directly into a vein and therefore should only be used by a healthcare professional in the hospital. The dose usually varies depending on the problem to be treated and the patient’s weight.
Albumin is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the components of the formula, with heart problems and abnormal blood volume, in patients with varicose veins in the esophagus, severe anemia, dehydration, pulmonary edema, with a tendency to bleed without apparent cause and lack of urine.
The use of this medicine should also not be practiced during pregnancy or lactation without medical advice.
Side effects normally associated with albumin use include nausea, redness and skin lesions, fever and allergic reactions throughout the body, which can be fatal.