Evaluation of Albumin Use in a Teaching Hospital

Background and

Albumin colloid is an expensive drug that is used unnecessarily in many cases.The purpose of this study was to review the rational use of human albumin in a teaching hospital.

This retrospective study was conducted in Razi Hospital in Qaemshahr, Iran 2011. Demographic and clinical data was recorded and the appropriateness of albumin use was determined according to ASHP protocol.

There were 100 patients receiving albumin and in 14% the serum albumin was not measured before or during the treatment. The median administration of albumin was 60 gr per patient. The reasons for starting human albumin were reduced serum albumin (56%), reduced blood volume (18%), and sepsis infection (9%). The use of albumin was appropriate in 63% of the patients.

The irrational use of albumin imposed 146 million Rials additional cost. Treatment according to standard guidelines could promote rational use of medicines and cause more saving in health costs.