Health Library

Hetastarch/sodium chloride (By injection)

Hetastarch (HET-a-starch), Sodium Chloride (SOE-dee-um KLOR-ide)

Treats low blood volume when other treatment is not available. Also used in a procedure called leukapheresis.

Brand Name(s):

Hespan

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how this medicine works. Tell your doctor if you are using a blood thinner.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart or blood vessel disease. Tell the doctor if you are allergic to corn starch.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Increased risk of kidney problems
  • Bleeding problems
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Bloody or cloudy urine, difficult or painful urination, change in how much or how often you urinate
• Chest pain, trouble breathing
• Confusion, drowsiness, muscle pain or tremors, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024