Heparin
Description
Heparin is a sulfated polysaccharide anticoagulant that increases the activity of antithrombin.
Indications
- heart attack
- unstable angina
- reversal of procoagulant action
Administration Routes
Side Effects
- bleeding
- pain at the injection site
- low blood platelets
Dosage
For anticoagulation:
- 150 units/kg IV push
- Maintain as needed with 100 units/kg every 4-6 hours
Available forms
- Prefilled syringe 2000 units / 2 mL (1000 units/mL)
- Prefilled syringe 5000 units / 5 mL (5000 units/mL)
Pharmacokinetics
TODO
| Route | Onset | Peak | Half-life | Duration of action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IV | Immediate | Immediate | 1-2 hours | 1-2 hours |
| SC | 1-2 hours | 3 hours | 1-2 hours | 1-2 hours |
| IM | ? | ? | ? | ? |
Note: heparin metabolism is quickly saturated and has predominantly linear elimination kinetics.
Interactions
TODO