Heparin Lock Flush 100u/ml Inj, 5ml
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 (local action)
Pharmacologic Class
Anticoagulant; Indirect thrombin inhibitor
Pregnancy Category
Category C (for systemic heparin, minimal risk 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 (catheter) from getting blocked. It helps prevent blood clots from forming inside the tube, so your catheter stays open and works properly for 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
- Maintain good hand hygiene before touching the catheter site.
- Follow specific instructions from your healthcare provider or nurse on how to flush your catheter.
- Do not attempt to flush if you feel resistance or pain; contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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 to flush intravenous catheters
Condition-Specific Dosing:
peripheral_venous_catheters:
1-3 mL of 10 units/mL solution
central_venous_catheters:
3-5 mL of 100 units/mL solution
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
0.5-1 mL of 10 units/mL solution per lumen, or as per institutional protocol
Infant:
0.5-1 mL of 10 units/mL solution per lumen, or as per institutional protocol
Child:
1-3 mL of 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution per lumen, depending on catheter size and type
Adolescent:
1-5 mL of 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution per lumen, depending on catheter size and type
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Severe:
No adjustment needed (negligible systemic absorption)
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Heparin potentiates the action of antithrombin III (a naturally occurring anticoagulant) to inactivate thrombin and factor Xa, thus preventing the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and inhibiting clot formation. In lock flush solutions, this action is primarily localized within the catheter lumen to prevent intraluminal clot formation and maintain patency.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal systemic absorption from catheter flushing
Tmax:
Not applicable for lock flush use
FoodEffect:
Not applicable
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for lock flush use (minimal systemic absorption)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable for lock flush use (minimal systemic absorption)
CnssPenetration:
No (minimal systemic absorption)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable for lock flush use (minimal systemic absorption)
Clearance:
Not applicable for lock flush use (minimal systemic absorption)
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable for lock flush use (minimal systemic absorption)
Unchanged:
Not applicable for lock flush use (minimal systemic absorption)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (local action within catheter)
PeakEffect:
Not applicable for systemic effect; local effect is immediate
DurationOfAction:
Maintains catheter patency until next flush or as per protocol (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 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
Confusion
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 any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for advice.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. 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 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
Confusion
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 any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for advice.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. 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:
- Catheter feels blocked or difficult to flush
- Pain, redness, swelling, or warmth at the catheter site
- Fever or chills (could indicate infection)
- Bleeding from the catheter site that doesn't stop
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, as this may be relevant to your treatment.
* Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding problems or a 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 discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help 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. This will ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.
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, as this may be relevant to your treatment.
* Certain health conditions, including:
+ Bleeding problems or a 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 discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help 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. This will ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.
While taking this drug, 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 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 your doctor 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 is available 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, especially 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 to discuss the potential benefits and risks to you and your baby.
While taking this drug, 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 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 your doctor 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 is available 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, especially 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 to discuss the potential benefits and risks to you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Systemic overdose is highly unlikely with lock flush due to minimal absorption.
- Local symptoms might include minor bruising if injected outside the catheter.
What to Do:
If accidental systemic injection of a large volume occurs, monitor for bleeding. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, but is rarely needed for lock flush. For local issues, apply pressure. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for advice if concerned.
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Catheter patency
Rationale: To ensure proper function before and after flushing
Timing: Before and after each flush
Routine Monitoring
Catheter patency and ease of flush
Frequency: Before and after each use, or as per institutional protocol (e.g., every 8-24 hours for unused catheters)
Target: Smooth, resistance-free flush and aspiration
Action Threshold: Resistance, inability to flush/aspirate, signs of occlusion
Site for signs of infection/inflammation
Frequency: Daily or with each dressing change
Target: Absence of redness, swelling, pain, discharge
Action Threshold: Presence of any signs of infection
Symptom Monitoring
- Difficulty flushing catheter
- Resistance upon injection
- Inability to aspirate blood
- Swelling, redness, pain at catheter insertion site
- Fever (rare, but could indicate catheter-related bloodstream infection)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Heparin does not cross the placenta. For lock flush, systemic absorption is negligible, posing minimal to no risk to the fetus. Use is generally considered safe and appropriate when clinically indicated.
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
Heparin is not excreted into breast milk. Due to negligible systemic absorption from lock flush, it is considered safe for use in breastfeeding mothers.
Infant Risk:
Minimal to no risk to the breastfed infant.
Pediatric Use
Safe and commonly used in pediatric patients for maintaining patency of intravenous and central venous catheters. Dosing is adjusted based on catheter volume and patient size, typically using lower concentrations (e.g., 10 units/mL) for neonates and infants.
Geriatric Use
Safe and commonly used in geriatric patients. No specific dose adjustments are needed for lock flush due to negligible systemic absorption. Monitor for signs of catheter-related complications.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Heparin lock flush is for maintaining catheter patency, NOT for systemic anticoagulation.
- Always use the correct concentration (10 units/mL vs. 100 units/mL) and volume as per institutional policy and catheter type.
- Ensure proper aseptic technique during flushing to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections.
- Always aspirate for blood return before flushing to confirm catheter patency and intraluminal placement.
- Do not force the flush if resistance is met; this could indicate an occlusion or catheter malposition and may damage the catheter or vessel.
- Saline flush is often preferred over heparin flush for many types of catheters due to the risk of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) and potential for medication interactions, even if minimal with lock flush. Follow current guidelines.
Alternative Therapies
- Normal Saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride) flush: Widely used and often preferred for maintaining patency of many types of IV catheters, especially peripheral and some central lines, due to lower cost and absence of heparin-related risks.
- Citrate lock solutions (e.g., 4% sodium citrate): Used for some central venous catheters, particularly in dialysis, as an alternative to heparin.
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely by manufacturer and quantity per 5mL vial
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Generally covered by most insurance plans as a necessary medical supply for patients with indwelling catheters.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed for 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 the recommended disposal method. Unless instructed otherwise, 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; your pharmacist can provide information on these programs. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; consult your pharmacist if you have questions. If you have concerns or questions 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 emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it was taken to ensure prompt and effective treatment.