Shock : molecular, cellular, and systemic pathobiological aspects and therapeutic approaches : the official journal the Shock Society, the European Shock Society, the Brazilian Shock Society, the International Federation of Shock Societies
-
Although there have been numerous advancements in burn wound management, burn injuries are still a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, and novel therapeutics are still needed to improve outcomes. Poloxamer 188 (P188) is a synthetic copolymer with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval that has many biological applications. This study aimed to review the literature on P188 in burn injuries and its effects based on burn mechanisms. ⋯ Although its utility may be limited in radiation injuries, P188 may be helpful in delaying the initial damage caused by radiation burns. P188 therefore has the potential to be used as a therapy in both burn wound management and in the treatment of systemic injuries sustained through burns. Future studies should aim to assess the efficacy of P188 in clinical models of burn injury.