Hemomax - a novel concept for resuscitation after severe hemorrhagic shock

HemoMax is a new preparation, based on plant-derived polysaccharides, which is designed for the improvement of impaired blood circulation. We studied the effect of HemoMax infusion on hemodynamics after severe hemorrhagic shock. Hemorrhage was induced in anesthetized rats (n=40) by withdrawal of about 50-60% of the animals' blood over 30 min (to a mean arterial pressure of 25 mm Hg). The bleeding was followed by a 10 min period of uninterrupted hemorrhagic shock and then resuscitation with a plasma expander. Group 1 (test) received Plasma-Lyte containing HemoMax at a concentration of 1-2 μg/ml, Group 2 (control) received only Plasma-Lyte. In both groups, no oxygen carrier or assisted ventilation was utilized during the resuscitation. Arterial blood pressure and tissue perfusion were recorded. In the control group, transfusion with Plasma-Lyte did not produce any improvements in hemodynamic parameters and 100% of the animals died within 30-60 minutes after the start of resuscitation. Blood pH in these animals fell from 7.4 to 6.9-7.0, indicating severe acidosis. In contrast, the hemodynamic parameters in all the test (HemoMax) animals improved immediately after the start of transfusion, with 100% survival after 3 hours. Tissue perfusion was restored and quickly exceeded the base level. Hemodynamic parameters remained stable during the whole period of observation. Normalization of acid-base equilibrium (to pH=7.4) was observed in the test animals. These data indicate that infusion of HemoMax may be an effective therapy for severe hemorrhage.