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'''Acid-citrate-dextrose''' (pronunciation: /ˈæsɪd ˈsɪtreɪt ˈdɛkstroʊz/) is a solution of citric acid, sodium citrate, and dextrose in water. It is used as an anticoagulant in the process of collecting and storing whole blood and blood components, particularly platelets.

==Etymology==
The term "Acid-citrate-dextrose" is derived from the three main components of the solution: citric acid, sodium citrate, and dextrose. The term "acid" refers to the citric acid component, "citrate" refers to the sodium citrate component, and "dextrose" refers to the glucose component.

==Usage==
Acid-citrate-dextrose is used as an anticoagulant to prevent the clotting of blood during collection and storage. It works by chelating the calcium ions in the blood, which are necessary for the clotting process. The dextrose component provides an energy source for the red blood cells.

==Related Terms==
* [[Anticoagulant]]: A substance that prevents coagulation (clotting) of blood.
* [[Citric acid]]: A weak organic acid that is used as a natural preservative and additive in food and beverages.
* [[Sodium citrate]]: A sodium salt of citric acid, used as an anticoagulant and a food additive.
* [[Dextrose]]: A simple sugar that is made from corn and is chemically identical to glucose, or blood sugar.
* [[Platelets]]: Tiny blood cells that help your body form clots to stop bleeding.

==See Also==
* [[Blood donation]]
* [[Blood transfusion]]
* [[Blood bank]]

[[Category:Medical terminology]]
[[Category:Pharmacology]]
[[Category:Hematology]]

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