CitrateDextrose

CitrateDextrose refers to a combination of citrate and dextrose, often used in a medical or laboratory context. Citrate is a salt of citric acid, a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits. In biological systems and medical applications, citrate plays a crucial role as an anticoagulant. It chelates, or binds to, calcium ions. Calcium is essential for the blood clotting cascade, and by binding to it, citrate prevents blood from coagulating. This property makes it useful in blood collection tubes and in procedures involving blood outside the body, such as dialysis or blood transfusions.

Dextrose is a simple sugar, also known as glucose. It is a primary source of energy for cells in the body. In medical settings, dextrose solutions are frequently administered intravenously to provide hydration and calories, or to correct low blood sugar levels. When combined with citrate, dextrose can serve several purposes. In some blood collection or storage solutions, dextrose may be included to provide an energy source for blood cells, potentially preserving their viability for a longer period. The specific ratio and purpose of citrate and dextrose in a given formulation will depend on its intended application, whether it's for diagnostic testing, therapeutic use, or research. The combination is designed to balance the need for anticoagulation with the maintenance of biological sample integrity or cellular function.