Heparin Posiflush 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
Anticoagulant
Pharmacologic Class
Antithrombin III potentiator
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Heparin Posiflush is a pre-filled syringe containing a very small amount of heparin, a blood thinner. It's used to keep your intravenous (IV) line or catheter from getting blocked by blood clots, ensuring it stays open and ready for 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. Your doctor may administer this medication through a catheter, as an injection into a vein or the fatty part of the skin, or 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. Your doctor may administer this medication through a catheter, as an injection into a vein or the fatty part of the skin, or 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
- Report any signs of bleeding (e.g., unusual bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool) to your healthcare provider, although this is rare with flush doses.
- Ensure proper hygiene around the catheter site to prevent infection.
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:
For maintaining catheter patency: 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution, instill 1-5 mL into the lumen of the catheter after each use or every 8-12 hours, as per institutional protocol. The volume should be sufficient to fill the lumen of the catheter.
Dose Range:
10 - 500 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
central_venous_catheter:
100 units/mL, 2-5 mL per lumen
peripheral_venous_catheter:
10 units/mL, 1-2 mL per lumen
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
For maintaining catheter patency: 10 units/mL solution, instill 0.5-1 mL into the lumen of the catheter after each use or every 8-12 hours.
Infant:
For maintaining catheter patency: 10 units/mL solution, instill 0.5-2 mL into the lumen of the catheter after each use or every 8-12 hours.
Child:
For maintaining catheter patency: 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution, instill 1-3 mL into the lumen of the catheter after each use or every 8-12 hours.
Adolescent:
For maintaining catheter patency: 10 units/mL or 100 units/mL solution, instill 1-5 mL into the lumen of the catheter after each use or every 8-12 hours.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Severe:
No adjustment needed for catheter flush due to minimal systemic absorption.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Heparin is an anticoagulant that acts by potentiating the activity of antithrombin III (ATIII), a plasma protein that inhibits activated coagulation factors, particularly thrombin (Factor IIa) and Factor Xa. By binding to ATIII, heparin causes a conformational change that accelerates the rate at which ATIII inactivates these clotting factors, thereby preventing the formation of fibrin clots and maintaining patency of intravenous catheters.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Minimal to negligible systemic absorption when used as a catheter flush.
Tmax:
Not applicable for catheter flush (local action). If systemically absorbed, rapid.
FoodEffect:
Not applicable.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable for catheter flush (local action). If systemically absorbed, 0.06 L/kg.
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable for catheter flush (local action). If systemically absorbed, high (to plasma proteins, endothelial cells, macrophages).
CnssPenetration:
No
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable for catheter flush (local action). If systemically absorbed, dose-dependent (e.g., 1-2 hours for therapeutic doses).
Clearance:
Not applicable for catheter flush (local action). If systemically absorbed, primarily renal.
ExcretionRoute:
Renal
Unchanged:
Small percentage
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Immediate (local effect within catheter lumen).
PeakEffect:
Immediate (local effect within catheter lumen).
DurationOfAction:
Maintains catheter patency until next flush or catheter use (typically 8-12 hours).
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 immediately or seek emergency 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 experience no side effects or only 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 immediately or seek emergency 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 experience no side effects or only 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:
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Redness, swelling, pain, or pus at the catheter site
- Fever or chills
- Inability to flush the catheter or resistance when flushing
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.
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.
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 about 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 are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have a sulfite allergy, discuss this with your doctor, as some products contain sulfites.
Individuals over 60 years old should use this medication with caution, as they may be more prone 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. 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. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication 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 about 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 are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you have a sulfite allergy, discuss this with your doctor, as some products contain sulfites.
Individuals over 60 years old should use this medication with caution, as they may be more prone 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. 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. You and your doctor will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Excessive bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding, blood in urine or stool, unusual bruising)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
What to Do:
Immediately contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical attention. For accidental systemic overdose, protamine sulfate may be administered to neutralize heparin. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control).
Drug Interactions
Monitoring
Symptom Monitoring
- Signs of bleeding (e.g., unusual bruising, petechiae, epistaxis, hematuria, melena)
- Signs of catheter occlusion (e.g., inability to flush, resistance to infusion, blood return issues)
- Signs of local irritation or allergic reaction at insertion site
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Heparin is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy as it does not cross the placenta. For catheter flush, systemic exposure is minimal, posing very low risk.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Low risk.
Second Trimester:
Low risk.
Third Trimester:
Low risk.
Lactation
Heparin is not excreted into breast milk in significant amounts and is poorly absorbed orally by the infant. Considered compatible with breastfeeding, especially at flush doses.
Infant Risk:
Low risk.
Pediatric Use
Safe for use in pediatric patients for catheter patency. Dosing is adjusted based on catheter size and patient age/weight, but the principle of minimal systemic exposure remains.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustments are typically needed for geriatric patients when used as a catheter flush. Monitor for increased bleeding risk if there is significant systemic absorption, though rare.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Heparin flush solutions are intended for maintaining catheter patency, not for therapeutic anticoagulation.
- Always verify the concentration of heparin (e.g., 10 units/mL vs. 100 units/mL) to prevent medication errors, especially when preparing from vials, though Posiflush is pre-filled.
- Saline flush is often preferred over heparin flush for many types of catheters due to reduced risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and cost-effectiveness, especially for short-term peripheral IVs.
- Ensure proper aseptic technique when flushing catheters to prevent infection.
- The volume of flush should be at least twice the volume of the catheter and extension set to ensure complete flushing.
Alternative Therapies
- 0.9% Sodium Chloride (Saline) flush
- Citrate lock solutions (for specific central lines)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely, typically low cost per syringe per pre-filled syringe
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (covered by most insurance plans)
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, 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. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Unless instructed otherwise, do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, which your pharmacist can provide. 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 emergency medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.