Plasma, Fresh Frozen

What it is and how it works

Fresh frozen plasma is plasma separated from donated whole blood or collected by apheresis and frozen rapidly to preserve labile coagulation factors. It replaces all plasma clotting factors and natural anticoagulants (protein C, protein S, antithrombin).

Indications

Correction of multiple coagulation factor deficiencies with bleeding or before invasive procedures (e.g. massive transfusion, liver disease, disseminated intravascular coagulation); plasma exchange in thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura; replacement of single factors when no specific concentrate is available.

Dosage and administration (summary)

Dosing is individualised by the treating specialist according to clinical response and coagulation tests (typically around 12–15 mL/kg), given by intravenous infusion through a blood administration set after thawing; must be ABO-compatible.

Contraindications

Not to be used as a volume expander or nutritional source; contraindicated in known IgA deficiency with anti-IgA antibodies unless IgA-deficient plasma is used.

Warnings and precautions

Risks include transfusion-associated circulatory overload, transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI), allergic and anaphylactic reactions, and transmission of infection. Administer within the time limits set by the blood service after thawing and monitor the patient closely.

Pregnancy

May be used in pregnancy when clinically indicated, for example in obstetric haemorrhage.

Storage and supply

Store frozen at or below −25 °C; once thawed, use promptly according to blood-service guidance and do not refreeze.

Source: reference summary prepared from the EU SmPC/EPAR, BNF and WHO Model Formulary. The approved product information in Iran governs.