The MHRA has issued a statement on hydroxyethyl starch (HES) containing solutions, following this announcement from the EMA. This notes that the use of these products has declined in the NHS following publication of studies suggesting safety concerns. They will be reviewing the implications of this in the UK, taking into account the availability of alternatives, and will seek the advice of the Commission on Human Medicines. Any new advice will be communicated to clinicians following this meeting.
The following HES products are currently available in the UK (taken from the EMA [Annex to the Procedure]):
• Plasma Volume Redibag 6% Solution for Infusion (Baxter)
• HyperHAES® (Fresenius Kabi)
• Volulyte® (Fresenius Kabi)
• Voluven® (Fresenius Kabi)
• Venofundin® (B Braun)
• Tetraspan® (B Braun)