However, because Hextend is very similar in composition to both of the products currently in routine use, and contains only common, widely used commodity chemicals, it may receive FDA approval. Hextend is composed of a water-based solution of hetastarch, electrolytes, sugar and a buffer. The other component is water. To these, BioTime has added sugar, calcium, and a buffer. All of Hextend's ingredients are currently available in other intravenous solutions.
Blood is composed of plasma, red and white blood cells, and platelets.
Plasma is the clear, yellowish fluid that is separated from whole blood when the red blood cell component is centrifuged. Plasma performs a myriad of functions. Plasma carries nutrients to the tissues and delivers waste to the kidneys for excretion. It transports drugs, antibodies, hormones and proteins. Importantly, plasma is also the source of clotting factors that enable blood to coagulate.