Heparin Lock Flush 100u/ml Inj, 1ml
It is used to thin the blood so that clots will not form.It is used to treat blood clots. It is used to keep blood from clotting in catheters. It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Anticoagulant (for catheter patency)
Pharmacologic Class
Antithrombotic agent; Indirect thrombin inhibitor
Pregnancy Category
Category C (for systemic heparin, minimal systemic absorption with lock flush)
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Heparin lock flush is a very small amount of a blood thinner used to keep your IV or central line from getting clogged. It's not meant to thin your blood throughout your body, but just to keep the tube clear so it works properly for your medications or fluids.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It's essential to follow the instructions carefully. This medication can be administered in different ways, including:
Through a catheter
As an injection into a vein
As an injection into the fatty part of the skin
As an infusion into a vein over a period of time
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for guidance on proper storage.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to determine the best course of action.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It's essential to follow the instructions carefully. This medication can be administered in different ways, including:
Through a catheter
As an injection into a vein
As an injection into the fatty part of the skin
As an infusion into a vein over a period of time
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist for guidance on proper storage.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to determine the best course of action.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Ensure proper hand hygiene before handling catheter or flush.
- Follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider for flushing technique and frequency.
- Do not reuse single-dose vials or syringes.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Heparin Lock Flush 100u/ml Inj, 1ml
- Heparin Lock Flush 100u/ml Inj, 5ml
- Heparin Sod 1000u/ml Inj, 2ml
- Heparin Sod 5,000u/ml Inj, 10ml
- Heparin Sod 5000u/0.5ml Inj, 0.5ml
- Heparin Sod 5,000u/ml Inj, 1ml
- Heparin Lock Flush 10u/ml Inj, 5ml
- Heparin Sod 1000u/ml Inj, 10ml
- Heparin Sod 1000u/ml Inj, 1ml
- Heparin Sod 10,000u/ml Inj, 4ml
- Heparin Sod 5000u/ml Carpuject, 1ml
- Heparin Lock Flush 100u/ml Inj, 3ml
- Heparin Sod 1000u/ml Inj, 30ml
- Heparin Sod 5000u/ml Prefilled Syr
- Heparin Sod 5000u/ml Inj, 1ml
- Heparin Lock Flush 10u/ml Inj, 1ml
- Heparin Sod 10,000u/ml Inj, 1ml
- Heparin Sod 20000u/ml Inj 1ml
- Heparin Sod 10,000u/ml Inj, 5ml
- Heparin Lock Flush 10u/ml Inj, 3ml
- Heparin Sod/nacl 25000u Inj, 500ml
- Heparin Sod/d5w 100u/ml Inj, 250ml
- Hep Sod/nacl 25000unt Inj, 250ml
- Heparin Na 50u/1ml/sod Cl 0.45% Inj
- Heparin Posiflush 100u/ml Inj, 3ml
- Heparin Sod 1000u/ml Inj,30ml
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution, volume sufficient to fill the catheter lumen (typically 1-5 mL) after each use or every 8-24 hours for intermittent use.
Dose Range:
1 - 5 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
peripheral_catheter:
1-2 mL of 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution
central_catheter:
2-5 mL of 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
0.5-1 mL of 10 units/mL solution, or volume sufficient to fill catheter lumen. 100 units/mL generally not recommended for neonates due to higher risk of systemic exposure.
Infant:
1-2 mL of 10 units/mL solution, or volume sufficient to fill catheter lumen. 100 units/mL generally not recommended for infants.
Child:
1-3 mL of 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution, or volume sufficient to fill catheter lumen.
Adolescent:
1-5 mL of 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution, or volume sufficient to fill catheter lumen.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Heparin binds to antithrombin III (ATIII), greatly accelerating the rate at which ATIII inactivates coagulation enzymes, particularly thrombin (Factor IIa) and Factor Xa. In the context of a lock flush, this action prevents fibrin clot formation within the catheter lumen, thereby maintaining catheter patency. Systemic anticoagulant effects are minimal due to the small volume and concentration used.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption from catheter flush (negligible)
Tmax:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
No (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption); systemic heparin half-life is dose-dependent (approx. 1-2 hours for therapeutic doses).
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption); renal excretion for systemically absorbed heparin.
Unchanged:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (local effect within catheter lumen)
PeakEffect:
Not applicable (local effect)
DurationOfAction:
Maintains catheter patency until next flush or catheter use (typically 8-24 hours)
Confidence:
Medium
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of bleeding, including:
+ Vomiting or coughing up blood
+ Vomit that resembles coffee grounds
+ Blood in the urine
+ Black, red, or tarry stools
+ Bleeding from the gums
+ Abnormal vaginal bleeding
+ Unexplained bruises or bruises that increase in size
+ Uncontrollable bleeding
Neurological symptoms, such as:
+ Weakness on one side of the body
+ Difficulty speaking or thinking
+ Changes in balance
+ Drooping on one side of the face
+ Blurred vision
Feeling confused
Severe headache
Dizziness or fainting
Upset stomach or vomiting
Unusual burning sensations, particularly on the soles of the feet
Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
Chest pain or pressure
Shortness of breath
Back pain
Groin or pelvic pain or swelling
Changes in skin color at the injection site
Skin breakdown at the site of administration
Fever or chills
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of bleeding, including:
+ Vomiting or coughing up blood
+ Vomit that resembles coffee grounds
+ Blood in the urine
+ Black, red, or tarry stools
+ Bleeding from the gums
+ Abnormal vaginal bleeding
+ Unexplained bruises or bruises that increase in size
+ Uncontrollable bleeding
Neurological symptoms, such as:
+ Weakness on one side of the body
+ Difficulty speaking or thinking
+ Changes in balance
+ Drooping on one side of the face
+ Blurred vision
Feeling confused
Severe headache
Dizziness or fainting
Upset stomach or vomiting
Unusual burning sensations, particularly on the soles of the feet
Swelling, warmth, numbness, color changes, or pain in a leg or arm
Chest pain or pressure
Shortness of breath
Back pain
Groin or pelvic pain or swelling
Changes in skin color at the injection site
Skin breakdown at the site of administration
Fever or chills
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. However, many people do not experience any side effects or only have mild ones. If you have side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Difficulty flushing the catheter
- Pain, swelling, redness, or pus at the catheter site
- Fever or chills (could indicate infection)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising (rare, but report if observed)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
If you are allergic to pork products, discuss this with your doctor.
* Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding problems
+ Low platelet count
+ A history of low platelet count caused by heparin or pentosan polysulfate
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to disclose all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health issues to your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
If you are allergic to pork products, discuss this with your doctor.
* Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding problems
+ Low platelet count
+ A history of low platelet count caused by heparin or pentosan polysulfate
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to disclose all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health issues to your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
While on this medication, you may experience easier bleeding, so it's crucial to be cautious and avoid injuries. To minimize the risk of bleeding, use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor for shaving.
There is a risk of severe and potentially life-threatening bleeding problems associated with this medication. Additionally, this drug can cause a condition known as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), which may lead to the formation of blood clots, also referred to as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITTS). Both HIT and HITTS can be fatal or cause other serious complications, and they may occur up to several weeks after stopping the medication. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. It is also important to undergo blood tests as directed by your doctor and to consult with them regarding any concerns.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it's vital to inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.
If you fall, injure yourself, or hit your head, contact your doctor immediately, even if you feel fine.
Ensure that you have the correct product, as this medication comes in various containers and strengths. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are allergic to sulfites, inform your doctor, as some products may contain sulfites.
Individuals over 60 years old should use this medication with caution, as they may be more susceptible to side effects.
Some products contain benzyl alcohol, which can cause serious side effects in newborns and infants, particularly when combined with other medications containing benzyl alcohol. If possible, avoid using products with benzyl alcohol in these age groups. Consult your doctor to determine if the product contains benzyl alcohol.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
While on this medication, you may experience easier bleeding, so it's crucial to be cautious and avoid injuries. To minimize the risk of bleeding, use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor for shaving.
There is a risk of severe and potentially life-threatening bleeding problems associated with this medication. Additionally, this drug can cause a condition known as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), which may lead to the formation of blood clots, also referred to as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITTS). Both HIT and HITTS can be fatal or cause other serious complications, and they may occur up to several weeks after stopping the medication. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. It is also important to undergo blood tests as directed by your doctor and to consult with them regarding any concerns.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it's vital to inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.
If you fall, injure yourself, or hit your head, contact your doctor immediately, even if you feel fine.
Ensure that you have the correct product, as this medication comes in various containers and strengths. If you have any doubts, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are allergic to sulfites, inform your doctor, as some products may contain sulfites.
Individuals over 60 years old should use this medication with caution, as they may be more susceptible to side effects.
Some products contain benzyl alcohol, which can cause serious side effects in newborns and infants, particularly when combined with other medications containing benzyl alcohol. If possible, avoid using products with benzyl alcohol in these age groups. Consult your doctor to determine if the product contains benzyl alcohol.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Excessive bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding gums, unusual bruising, blood in urine/stool) - extremely rare with lock flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
- Hypotension (rare)
What to Do:
If significant systemic absorption is suspected (extremely rare), discontinue use. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin overdose, but is rarely, if ever, needed for lock flush. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) or seek immediate medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Catheter patency and integrity
Rationale: Ensure catheter is functional and free from damage before flushing.
Timing: Prior to each flush
Signs of local infection or inflammation
Rationale: Assess for redness, swelling, pain, or discharge at insertion site.
Timing: Prior to each flush
Routine Monitoring
Catheter patency (ease of flush and aspiration)
Frequency: After each use or every 8-24 hours for intermittent use
Target: Smooth, resistance-free flush; easy blood aspiration
Action Threshold: Resistance to flush, inability to aspirate blood, or signs of occlusion
Insertion site assessment
Frequency: Daily or with each dressing change
Target: No redness, swelling, pain, or discharge
Action Threshold: Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pain, purulent drainage) or phlebitis
Symptom Monitoring
- Resistance when flushing catheter
- Inability to aspirate blood from catheter
- Swelling or pain at catheter insertion site
- Redness or warmth around catheter insertion site
- Fever or chills (may indicate catheter-related bloodstream infection)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for use as a catheter lock flush during pregnancy due to minimal systemic absorption. Systemic heparin is Category C, but the risk from lock flush is negligible.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Minimal risk due to negligible systemic absorption.
Second Trimester:
Minimal risk due to negligible systemic absorption.
Third Trimester:
Minimal risk due to negligible systemic absorption.
Lactation
Considered safe for use in breastfeeding mothers. Heparin is a large molecule and is not excreted into breast milk in significant amounts even with systemic administration. Minimal systemic absorption from lock flush makes infant exposure negligible.
Infant Risk:
Very low to negligible risk.
Pediatric Use
Use with caution, especially in neonates and infants, where lower concentrations (e.g., 10 units/mL) and precise volumes are preferred to minimize potential for systemic exposure. Risk of systemic bleeding or HIT is extremely low but theoretically higher in very low birth weight infants if excessive amounts are inadvertently administered.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustment needed. Use with caution in patients with increased bleeding risk, although systemic absorption from lock flush is minimal. Monitor catheter site closely.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Heparin lock flush is NOT for systemic anticoagulation. Its purpose is solely to maintain catheter patency.
- Always verify the concentration (10 units/mL vs. 100 units/mL) and volume before administration to prevent medication errors.
- Use aseptic technique during flushing to prevent catheter-related infections.
- Ensure positive pressure technique (clamping catheter while injecting the last 0.5 mL or immediately after injection) to prevent blood reflux into the catheter tip.
- Saline flush (0.9% Sodium Chloride) is often preferred over heparin flush for many types of catheters due to lower cost, no risk of HIT, and comparable efficacy for short-term patency. Consult institutional guidelines.
- Do not use if solution is discolored or contains particulate matter.
Alternative Therapies
- 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Saline) flush
- Citrate lock solutions (e.g., 4% sodium citrate) - primarily for central venous catheters, especially in dialysis patients, with specific risks and benefits.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 10 x 1mL vials
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (often covered as part of medical supplies)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed to someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Properly dispose of unused or expired medications by checking with your pharmacist for guidance on the best disposal method. Unless instructed to do so, avoid flushing medications down the toilet or pouring them down the drain, as this can harm the environment. Many communities offer drug take-back programs, which your pharmacist can help you locate. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, consult with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it was taken, as this will aid in providing prompt and effective treatment.