Heparin Lock Flush 10u/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
Anticoagulant; Catheter Patency Agent
Pharmacologic Class
Anticoagulant, Indirect Thrombin Inhibitor
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Heparin lock flush is a very small amount of a blood-thinning medicine used to keep intravenous (IV) lines and catheters from getting blocked by blood clots. It helps keep the IV line open so it can be used when needed.
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, 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, 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 technique for flushing as instructed by healthcare provider.
- Report any issues with the catheter (e.g., difficulty flushing, pain, swelling) 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 solution, 1-3 mL per lumen, typically every 8-24 hours or after each use/blood draw. Volume should not exceed catheter lumen volume.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
catheter_flush:
10 units/mL solution, 1-3 mL per lumen, typically every 8-24 hours or after each use/blood draw. Volume should not exceed catheter lumen volume.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
0.5 mL per lumen (10 units/mL solution), or as per institutional protocol based on catheter volume.
Infant:
0.5-1 mL per lumen (10 units/mL solution), or as per institutional protocol based on catheter volume.
Child:
1-2 mL per lumen (10 units/mL solution), or as per institutional protocol based on catheter volume.
Adolescent:
1-3 mL per lumen (10 units/mL solution), or as per institutional protocol based on catheter volume.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Heparin binds to antithrombin III (ATIII), causing a conformational change that greatly enhances ATIII's ability to inactivate thrombin (Factor IIa) and Factor Xa. This prevents the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin and the activation of Factor XIII, thereby inhibiting clot formation. In the context of a lock flush, this action is localized within the catheter lumen to prevent intraluminal clot formation and maintain patency.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal to none systemically from lock flush.
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).
Clearance:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
Unchanged:
Not applicable (minimal systemic absorption).
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (within the catheter lumen).
PeakEffect:
Not applicable systemically.
DurationOfAction:
Maintains catheter patency for 8-24 hours or until next flush/use.
Note:
Systemic anticoagulant effects are not expected or desired with appropriate use of heparin lock flush.
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 experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you have any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for advice. Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor.
You can 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 experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you have any side effects that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for advice. Not all possible side effects are listed here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor.
You can 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 or drawing blood from it
- Pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the catheter site
- Any signs of bleeding from the catheter site (though rare with lock flush)
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 symptoms 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 determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage 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 symptoms 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 determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions.
Remember, do not start, stop, or change the dosage 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'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, 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, especially when combined with other medications containing benzyl alcohol. If you are concerned about this, discuss it with your doctor to determine if the product you are using contains benzyl alcohol.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or 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'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, 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, especially when combined with other medications containing benzyl alcohol. If you are concerned about this, discuss it with your doctor to determine if the product you are using contains benzyl alcohol.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or 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 is highly unlikely with proper use of heparin lock flush due to minimal absorption.
- If significant systemic absorption were to occur (e.g., accidental large volume injection), symptoms would include easy bruising, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, unusual bleeding from wounds, or blood in urine/stools.
What to Do:
If accidental systemic overdose is suspected, discontinue use immediately. For significant systemic bleeding, protamine sulfate may be administered by a healthcare professional. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for advice in case of accidental ingestion or misuse.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Major Interactions
- Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate Interactions
- Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Minor Interactions
- Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Catheter patency assessment
Rationale: To ensure the catheter is functional before flushing.
Timing: Before initial use and before each flush.
Routine Monitoring
Catheter patency
Frequency: Before each use/flush, or every 8-24 hours as per protocol.
Target: Easy aspiration and injection without resistance.
Action Threshold: Resistance to flush, inability to aspirate blood, or signs of occlusion (e.g., swelling, pain at site).
Local site assessment
Frequency: Regularly, especially during dressing changes or patient complaints.
Target: Absence of redness, swelling, pain, or discharge.
Action Threshold: Signs of inflammation, infection, or extravasation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Resistance to flushing or aspiration from the catheter
- Swelling, pain, or redness at the catheter insertion site
- Leakage around the catheter
- Fever or chills (potential infection related to catheter)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Heparin is classified as Pregnancy Category C. However, for heparin lock flush, systemic absorption is minimal, making the risk to the fetus negligible with appropriate use. Consult with a healthcare provider.
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 considered L2 (safer) during lactation for systemic use as it does not pass into breast milk in significant amounts. For lock flush, systemic absorption is minimal, posing negligible risk to the nursing infant.
Infant Risk:
Minimal to no risk.
Pediatric Use
Heparin lock flush is commonly used in pediatric patients. Dosing volumes must be carefully adjusted based on the child's weight, catheter size, and institutional protocols to prevent accidental systemic overdose, although rare with appropriate lock flush concentrations.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are typically required for geriatric patients beyond standard practice. Use with caution in patients with increased bleeding risk, although systemic absorption from lock flush is minimal.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Heparin lock flush is intended for maintaining catheter patency and is NOT for systemic anticoagulation.
- Always verify the concentration (e.g., 10 units/mL) to avoid accidental administration of higher concentrations intended for systemic use.
- Ensure proper aseptic technique during flushing to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections.
- The volume of flush should not exceed the internal volume of the catheter lumen to prevent unnecessary systemic exposure.
- Saline flush is often preferred over heparin flush for many types of catheters due to lower cost, reduced risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), and similar efficacy in many settings. Heparin flush is typically reserved for specific catheter types or patient populations as per institutional guidelines.
Alternative Therapies
- Normal Saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride) flush: The most common alternative for maintaining catheter patency, often preferred due to lower cost and absence of heparin-related risks (e.g., HIT).
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Check current market prices per 3ml pre-filled syringe
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Typically covered under medical benefits for hospital/clinic use.
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 prescription medications with others, and do not take medications prescribed to someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is crucial. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult with your pharmacist, who can provide guidance on safe disposal practices or inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area.
Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; check with your pharmacist to see if this applies to your prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the name of the medication, the amount taken, and the time it was taken, to ensure prompt and effective treatment.
To ensure safe use, never share your prescription medications with others, and do not take medications prescribed to someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is crucial. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult with your pharmacist, who can provide guidance on safe disposal practices or inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area.
Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet; check with your pharmacist to see if this applies to your prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to 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 detailed information about the overdose, including the name of the medication, the amount taken, and the time it was taken, to ensure prompt and effective treatment.