HEP-a-rin
High Alert
Absorption: Erratically absorbed following SUBQ or IM administration.
Distribution: Does not cross the placenta or enter breast milk.
Protein Binding: Very high (to low-density lipoproteins, globulins, and fibrinogen).
Half-Life: 1–2 hr (↑ with increasing dose); affected by obesity, renal and hepatic function, malignancy, presence of PE, and infections.
Contraindicated in:
Use Cautiously in:
Derm: alopecia (long-term use), rash, urticaria
F and E: hyperkalemia
GI: ↑liver enzymes
Hemat: anemia, BLEEDING, HIT (WITH OR WITHOUT THROMBOSIS)
Local: pain at injection site
MS: osteoporosis (long-term use)
Misc: fever, hypersensitivity reactions
Heparin is frequently used concurrently or sequentially with other agents affecting coagulation. The risk of potentially serious interactions is greatest with full anticoagulation.
Drug-drug:
Drug-Natural Products:
Therapeutic Anticoagulation
Prophylaxis of Thromboembolism
Cardiovascular Surgery
Line Flushing
Total Parenteral Nutrition
Arterial Line Patency
Lab Test Considerations:
Toxicity and Overdose:
Fatal hemorrhages have occurred in pediatric patients due to errors in which heparin sodium injection vials were confused with heparin flush vials. Carefully examine all heparin sodium injection vials to confirm the correct vial choice prior to administration. Have second practitioner independently check original order, dose calculation, and infusion pump settings. Unintended concomitant use of two heparin products (unfractionated heparin and low-molecular weight heparins) has resulted in serious harm or death. Review patients' recent (emergency department, operating room) and current medication administration records before administering any heparin or LMWH product.
IV Administration:
NDC Code