Key result
The authors argue that while hydroxyethyl starch solutions have documented risks, they should not be completely banned, as decisions about intravenous fluid therapy should be individualized.
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This commentary argues against a total ban on hydroxyethyl starch solutions, supporting restricted and individualized use in critical care settings rather than complete elimination.
The choice of which intravenous solution to prescribe remains a matter of considerable debate in intensive care units around the world. Trends have been moving away from using hydroxyethyl starch solutions following concerns about safety. But are the available data sufficient to clearly assess the risk-benefit balance for all patients, and is there enough evidence of harm to justify removing these drugs completely from our hospitals?
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Vincent et al. (2013) conducted an editorial in Critically ill patients requiring fluid resuscitation. Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solutions vs. Other intravenous fluids (crystalloids, other colloids) was evaluated. The authors argue that while hydroxyethyl starch solutions have documented risks, they should not be completely banned, as decisions about intravenous fluid therapy should be individualized.
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