Albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver. It is the most abundant protein in human plasma.1 Normally it constitutes about 55 percent of all plasma proteins. Albumin performs multiple functions, including transport of many small molecules in the blood such as bilirubin, calcium, and magnesium. Albumin also binds toxins and heavy metals, thereby preventing damage they might otherwise cause. One of albumin's major roles is maintaining colloid osmotic or oncotic pressure and is therefore very important in regulating the exchange of water between plasma and the interstital compartment.1
Possible causes of a decrease in the level of albumin in the blood include liver or kidney disease, severe malnutrition or a very low protein diet, or increased loss of albumin from circulation (e.g., due to shock).1 If the concentration of albumin gets very low, fluid moves from the blood vessels into the tissues, resulting in swelling in the ankles (edema). This fluid also can accumulate in the abdomen (ascites) and in the lungs (pulmonary edema).1
Providing albumin by intravenous administration can improve these problems and correct the low albumin level. Albumin for therapeutic use is extracted from collected human plasma by the use of a fractionation process that separates albumin from plasma and other plasma components.2 Albumin is prepared as a sterile solution, contains no preservatives, and is heated to prevent transmitted viruses.3
Talecris' albumin products, which are derived from human plasma, have an exceptional safety record. In over 60 years of production, there hasn't been a single confirmed case of virus transmission caused by our albumin products, resulting in the longest safety record of any plasma-derived product.
The most current prescribing information is available for the following products:
Certain patients, eg, those with a history of congestive cardiac failure, renal insufficiency, or stabilized chronic anemia, are at special risk of developing circulatory overload. Albumin is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergic reaction to albumin human products are made from human plasma. Products made from human plasma may contain infectious agents, such as viruses that can cause disease.
References
1Peters Theodore, Jr: All about Albumin, Biochemistry, Genetics, and Medical Applications. Academic Press. 1996, 1-432.
2Cohn EJ, Strong LE, Hughes WL, et al. Preparation and Properties of Serum and Plasma Protein. IV. A System for the Separation Into Fractions of the Protein and Lipoprotein Components of Biological Tissues and Fluids. J Am Chem Soc. 1946;68:459.
3Albuminloesung vom Menschen: Europäisches Arzneibuch 3. Ausgabe 1997 - Pharmacopoea Europaea, Amtliche Deutsche Ausgabe, S. 445-447 (DAV, Stuttgart/Govi-Verlag, Eschborn) und Supplement 1999 (Reagenzienteil)
Remember, your doctor or healthcare provider is the single best source of information regarding you and your health. Please consult your doctor if you have any questions about your health, your symptoms, or your therapy.
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