Heparin Lock Flush 100u/ml Inj, 3ml
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
Catheter Patency Agent; Anticoagulant
Pharmacologic Class
Anticoagulant, Indirect Thrombin Inhibitor
Pregnancy Category
B
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Heparin lock flush is a very small amount of medicine used to keep intravenous (IV) lines or catheters from getting blocked. It helps prevent blood clots from forming inside the tube, ensuring the IV line stays open for future use.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. 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 to determine the best way to store it.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to find out what steps to take next.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided to you. 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 to determine the best way to store it.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to find out what steps to take next.
Lifestyle & Tips
- This medication is administered by healthcare professionals. Patients do not typically self-administer heparin lock flush.
- Maintain good hygiene around the catheter insertion site as instructed by healthcare providers.
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:
Volume sufficient to fill the catheter lumen and any attached extension set (typically 1-5 mL, depending on catheter size and type and institutional protocol)
Dose Range:
1 - 5 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Maintenance of patency of central and peripheral venous catheters:
Flush catheter after each use or every 8-24 hours per institutional protocol.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Volume sufficient to fill the catheter lumen and any attached extension set (typically 0.5-1 mL, depending on catheter size and type and institutional protocol)
Infant:
Volume sufficient to fill the catheter lumen and any attached extension set (typically 0.5-2 mL, depending on catheter size and type and institutional protocol)
Child:
Volume sufficient to fill the catheter lumen and any attached extension set (typically 1-3 mL, depending on catheter size and type and institutional protocol)
Adolescent:
Volume sufficient to fill the catheter lumen and any attached extension set (typically 1-5 mL, depending on catheter size and type and institutional protocol)
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Moderate:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Severe:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Dialysis:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Moderate:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Severe:
Not applicable; minimal systemic absorption with lock flush use.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Heparin binds to antithrombin III (ATIII), a plasma protein, and greatly accelerates the rate at which ATIII inactivates coagulation enzymes, particularly Factor Xa and thrombin (Factor IIa). This prevents the formation of fibrin clots within the catheter lumen, thereby maintaining patency.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal to none (for lock flush use)
Tmax:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
Clearance:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
Unchanged:
Not applicable (for lock flush use)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (local effect within catheter)
PeakEffect:
Immediate (local effect within catheter)
DurationOfAction:
Until next flush or catheter use; maintains patency between flushes.
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 enlarge
+ 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.
Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, you can also contact your doctor.
To report side effects, you can call the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or visit their website 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 enlarge
+ 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.
Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. For medical advice about side effects, you can also contact your doctor.
To report side effects, you can call the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or visit their website at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Not applicable for patient self-monitoring of drug effects; concerns relate to catheter function or local site issues.
- Report any difficulty flushing the IV line, inability to draw blood from the line, or signs of infection (redness, swelling, pain, pus) at the IV site to a healthcare professional immediately.
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 problems 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.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting 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 problems 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.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
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 is crucial to be cautious and avoid injuries. To minimize the risk of bleeding, use a soft-bristled 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 you stop taking this 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 your doctor about any concerns.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is vital to inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.
If you experience a fall, injury, or head trauma, contact your doctor immediately, even if you feel fine.
Ensure that you have the correct product, as this medication is available in various containers and strengths. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have a sulfite allergy, discuss this with 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 should be avoided in newborns and infants whenever possible, as it can cause serious side effects in these age groups, particularly when combined with other medications containing benzyl alcohol. Consult your doctor to determine if the product you are using contains benzyl alcohol.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as 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 is crucial to be cautious and avoid injuries. To minimize the risk of bleeding, use a soft-bristled 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 you stop taking this 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 your doctor about any concerns.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is vital to inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.
If you experience a fall, injury, or head trauma, contact your doctor immediately, even if you feel fine.
Ensure that you have the correct product, as this medication is available in various containers and strengths. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have a sulfite allergy, discuss this with 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 should be avoided in newborns and infants whenever possible, as it can cause serious side effects in these age groups, particularly when combined with other medications containing benzyl alcohol. Consult your doctor to determine if the product you are using contains benzyl alcohol.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Systemic overdose (extremely unlikely with lock flush): unusual bleeding or bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stools.
- Local overdose: Not typically associated with specific symptoms beyond potential catheter occlusion if not flushed properly.
What to Do:
For systemic overdose, protamine sulfate is the antidote. For lock flush, management typically involves discontinuing use and monitoring; systemic overdose is highly improbable. Call 1-800-222-1222 for Poison Control.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- None known for lock flush use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Major Interactions
- None known for lock flush use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate Interactions
- None known for lock flush use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Minor Interactions
- None known for lock flush use due to minimal systemic absorption.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Not typically required for lock flush use.
Rationale: Minimal systemic absorption.
Timing: Not applicable
Routine Monitoring
Catheter patency assessment
Frequency: Prior to each use of the catheter or per institutional protocol (e.g., every 8-24 hours for intermittent use).
Target: Catheter flushes easily without resistance, blood can be aspirated.
Action Threshold: Resistance to flush, inability to aspirate blood, swelling or pain at insertion site.
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of catheter occlusion (e.g., inability to infuse fluids/medications, resistance to flushing, inability to aspirate blood)
- Signs of local infection at the catheter insertion site (e.g., redness, swelling, pain, warmth, purulent drainage)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy as a lock flush due to minimal systemic absorption. Heparin does not cross the placenta.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Minimal risk due to local action and minimal systemic absorption.
Second Trimester:
Minimal risk due to local action and minimal systemic absorption.
Third Trimester:
Minimal risk due to local action and minimal systemic absorption.
Lactation
Considered safe for use during lactation. Heparin is not excreted into breast milk in significant amounts due to its large molecular weight and minimal systemic absorption from lock flush.
Infant Risk:
Very low.
Pediatric Use
Safe and commonly used in pediatric patients for maintaining catheter patency. Dosing is adjusted based on the volume of the catheter lumen and institutional protocols, not body weight.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments or precautions are typically required for heparin lock flush in geriatric patients, as systemic absorption is minimal.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Always ensure the correct concentration of heparin lock flush (e.g., 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL) is used to prevent accidental systemic overdose, especially in pediatric patients.
- Differentiate heparin lock flush from therapeutic heparin used for systemic anticoagulation; they are not interchangeable.
- Use aseptic technique when flushing catheters to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections.
- Verify catheter patency (flush and aspirate blood) before administering any medications or fluids through the line.
- Saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride) is often an effective and safer alternative for maintaining patency of many types of catheters, especially peripheral IVs, reducing the risk of heparin-related complications.
Alternative Therapies
- 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Saline) flush: Often preferred for many types of catheters, especially peripheral IVs, due to lower risk of complications.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Relatively inexpensive; varies by supplier and volume/concentration. per vial/syringe
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Typically covered under medical supplies or hospital formulary; not usually a direct patient cost for outpatient use.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly; do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may have additional patient information leaflets, so it is a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.