Hydroxyethyl Starch Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 9, 2024.

Applies to hydroxyethyl starch: intravenous solution.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

• This drug may raise the risk of severe kidney problems and death in people who are very ill or who have a severe blood infection.

  This drug must not be used in these people.

Serious side effects of hydroxyethyl starch

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Signs of kidney problems like unable to pass urine, change in how much urine is passed, blood in the urine, or a big weight gain.
• Shortness of breath, a big weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs.
• Flu-like signs.
• Fast, slow, or abnormal heartbeat.
• Any unexplained bruising or bleeding.

Other side effects of hydroxyethyl starch

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Itching.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to hydroxyethyl starch: intravenous solution.

Cardiovascular adverse events

• Postmarketing reports: Hypotension/shock/circulatory collapse^[Ref]

Hematologic

• Common (1% to 10%): Decreased hematocrit
• Rare (less than 0.1%): Coagulation disorders beyond dilution effects^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Rare (less than 0.1%): Anaphylactic/anaphylactoid/hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., hypersensitivity, mild influenza-like symptoms, bradycardia, tachycardia, bronchospasm, noncardiac pulmonary edema)^[Ref]

Metabolic

• Common (1% to 10%): Decreased plasma proteins^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Elevation of serum amylase, interference with the diagnosis of pancreatitis^[Ref]

Further information

Hydroxyethyl starch side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer