Hetastarch (Injection)

Introduction

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

Treats a plasma deficiency in the body. Belongs to the class of drugs called plasma volume expanders.

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given
• A nurse or other caregiver trained to give IV drugs will give your treatment.
• Your medicine will be given through a tube put in one of your veins, usually in your arm, wrist or hand and sometimes in your chest. This is called intravenous (in-tra-VEEN-us), or IV infusion.
• If you get your treatments at a clinic the staff at the clinic will keep your medicine there.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine should be given on a regular schedule. If you miss a dose, call your doctor, clinic, or home health caregiver for instructions.

Brand Name(s)

Hespan

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• If you keep the medicine at home, store it at room temperature, away from heat and light.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

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

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using digoxin (Lanoxin®), corticosteroids, or corticotropin (Acthar®, ACTH®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are allergic to corn.
• Tell your doctor if you have diabetes or liver disease.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

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

• Chest pain
• Fast, slow or irregular heartbeat
• Rash or itching
• Redness, pain, or swelling where the IV is given
• Unexplained chills, fever, or flu-like symptoms
• Wheezing or trouble breathing

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

• Headaches
• Leg swelling and muscle pain
• Mild flu-like symptoms
• Swelling of the jaw or ear
• Vomiting

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