Heparin Sodium (Porcine)

Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Embolism (PE):

• Subcutaneous Injection: 5,000 units subcutaneously every 8-12 hours.
• This is typically used for patients at high risk of clot formation after surgery or prolonged immobility.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib):

• Subcutaneous Injection: Initial doses vary but typically around 10,000-15,000 units subcutaneously every 12 hours or as adjusted based on blood clotting factors.
• The goal is to maintain anticoagulation while preventing excessive bleeding in patients at risk of clot formation due to irregular heart rhythms.

Management of Chronic Blood Clotting Disorders:

• Subcutaneous Injection: Maintenance doses may range from 15,000-20,000 units subcutaneously every 12 hours.
• Adjustments are made based on the patient’s clotting time (aPTT), to ensure therapeutic levels.

Prevention of Clots in Indwelling Catheters:

• Heparin Lock Flush Solution: To prevent clotting, 10-100 units/mL of Heparin solution is injected into the catheter. The frequency depends on the type of catheter and patient-specific needs (typically every 8-12 hours).
• This maintains catheter patency and prevents blood clots from forming within the lines.

Transitioning to Oral Anticoagulants (Bridging Therapy):

• Subcutaneous Injection: Doses typically range from 10,000 to 20,000 units subcutaneously every 12 hours, depending on the patient’s weight and clotting time (aPTT).
• Heparin is used temporarily until oral anticoagulants, such as warfarin, reach therapeutic levels.

• Those with active, uncontrolled bleeding
• If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to heparin
• Severe thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
• If you have certain medical conditions (e.g., severe uncontrolled high blood pressure, stomach/intestinal ulcers, or bacterial endocarditis)

• Talk to your Doctor and Pharmacist: You should frequently contact your Healthcare Provider regarding dosing, as it may need to be adjusted occasionally.
• Expect bruising. A little bruising is normal, but contact your doctor if you notice extensive bruising or blood in your urine or stool.
• Regular lab visits. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your blood regularly for platelet count and clotting time.
• Alert for allergic reactions. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience any symptoms of allergic reactions (rashes, hives, difficulty breathing).

At the injection site you may experience:

• irritation
• pain
• redness

• Excessive bleeding is rare but can be life-threatening. Symptoms include unusually large or frequent bruises, red or dark brown urine, black or bloody stools, severe nausea/vomiting, and prolonged bleeding from cuts.
• Heparin can cause decreased platelets in the blood (very rare), which affects blood clotting. Symptoms include easy bruising/bleeding, extreme fatigue, and rapid heartbeat.

• If you have a history of blood disorders, severe liver disease, or stomach or intestinal problems, seek your doctor's approval before beginning the Heparin regime.
• Its usage might reduce platelet counts, which can have severe health implications. Regular blood tests while taking this drug can help detect early signs.

• Warfarin
• Aspirin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Platelet inhibitors
• Thrombin inhibitors

• Warfarin
• Enoxaparin
• Dalteparin
• Fondaparinux
• Rivaroxaban
• Apixaban
• Dabigatran