Plasma expander

Definition

Plasma expanders are active substances that increase total blood volume (volume expansion). The following four groups are used as plasma expanders:

1. Human albumin
2. Dextranes
3. Hydroxyethyl starch
4. Gelatin preparations

Dextrans are polysaccharides composed of glucose molecules as their basic building blocks. Modified starch, produced by reacting the basic glucose molecules with hydroxyethyl groups ("ethanol"), is also used as a plasma expander. This product is marketed under the name hydroxyethyl starch (HES). More detailed information on HES 

Significance as a doping agent

Plasma expanders were first placed on the IOC’s prohibited list after it became known that athletes were using them to lower their hematocrit levels (as a countermeasure to EPO doping). Another use is to compensate for fluid loss during endurance exercise. 

Effective January 1, 2000, the IOC Medical Commission has prohibited the use of plasma expanders and artificial oxygen carriers. 

See also HES (hydroxyethyl starch)