Indications
Heparin Sodium is a prescription medication used for preventing and treating blood clots. It is used to prevent and treat blood clots in various parts of the body, including the lungs and legs, in patients with atrial fibrillation, and in those with certain blood clotting disorders. It works as an anticoagulant, which means it decreases the ability of the blood to clot. It does this by enhancing the function of a natural anti-clotting protein in the body, thereby helping to keep blood flowing smoothly.
Heparin works by accelerating the rate of the neutralization of certain activated coagulation factors by ant thrombin, but other mechanisms may also be at play. This medication is typically used in the hospital setting to prevent and treat blood clots and requires blood tests to monitor bleeding risk.
Uses and Dosage
Heparin Sodium is administered by injection, either into a vein or under the skin, as directed by a healthcare professional. Do not inject heparin into a muscle, and use the correct strength and dosage as prescribed by a healthcare professional. When injecting into a vein, it is recommended to flush the catheter/line with normal saline before and after infusing drugs that interact with heparin.
When injecting under the skin, always clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol and change the injection site each time to avoid injury. Learn all preparation and usage instructions from a healthcare professional when giving this medication to yourself at home. Store and discard medical supplies safely. Using Heparin sodium regularly at the same time each day can provide the most benefit. Additionally, serious, and sometimes fatal injuries have occurred when the wrong strength or dose of medication was used, so it is important to double-check before injecting.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Heparin sodium (Heparin Sodium, Porcine):
- Bluish-colored skin
- Easy bleeding and bruising
- Itching of your feet
- Pain
- Redness
- Skin changes where the medicine was injected
- Warmth
Serious Side Effects of Heparin sodium (Heparin Sodium, Porcine):
- Abdominal or stomach pain or swelling
- Back pain or backaches
- Bleeding from the gums when brushing teeth
- Blood in the urine
- Blood under the skin (blood blister) at the place of injection
- Chest pain
- Chills or fever
- Constipation
- Coughing up blood
- Dizziness
- Erectile dysfunction
- Fast or irregular breathing
- Hair loss
- Headaches, severe or continuing
- Heavy bleeding or oozing from cuts or wounds
- Irritation, pain, redness, or ulcers at the place of injection
- Itching and burning feeling, especially on the bottom of the feet
- Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
- Menstrual bleeding, unexpected, or unusually heavy
- Nausea or vomiting
- Osteoporosis (after long-term use of heparin)
- Unexplained nosebleeds
- Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Form and Strength
Heparin sodium (Heparin Sodium, Porcine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Heparin Sodium, Porcine: Vial
- 1000 IU/ML%
Caution
- Use caution in patients with active bleeding, recent surgery, severe hypertension, or other conditions that increase the risk of bleeding
- Heparin use may be contraindicated in patients with certain medical conditions, such as severe liver or kidney disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or ulcerative lesions
- Heparin may interact with certain medications, including aspirin, warfarin, and some antibiotics, so inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking before starting heparin
- Use caution with heparin dosing and concentration, as medication errors can occur if the wrong concentration or dose is administered
- Heparin may cause allergic reactions, including hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and immediate medical attention should be sought if these occur
- Heparin use may increase the risk of osteoporosis, so it should be used with caution in patients with a history of bone disorders or those receiving long-term therapy
- Heparin should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks, as it may increase the risk of bleeding and may cross the placenta and harm the fetus
- Heparin use may be associated with increased risk of bleeding complications in older adults
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Heparin Sodium, Porcine be given to children?
Heparin Sodium and Porcine may be given to children under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
How is the dosage of Heparin Sodium, Porcine determined?
The dosage of Heparin Sodium, Porcine is typically determined based on factors such as the patient's body weight, medical condition, and other medications they may be taking.
Can Heparin Sodium, Porcine be safely used during pregnancy?
Heparin Sodium and Porcine may be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. However, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using this medication during pregnancy.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/017029s131017651s055lbl.pdf
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=56dc3074-f1c5-45a3-b923-f1d14858e06d
- https://www.rxlist.com/heparin-sodium-injection-drug.htm
- https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/drug-encyclopedia/drug.heparin-porcine-pf-5-000-unit-0-5-ml-injection-syringe.476316
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3918/heparin-porcine-injection/details
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