Heparin Sod 1000u/ml Inj, 30ml

Heparin binds to antithrombin III (ATIII), a plasma protein that inactivates thrombin (Factor IIa) and Factor Xa. This binding causes a conformational change in ATIII, greatly accelerating its inhibitory action on these coagulation factors. Heparin also inhibits the activation of Factor IX, Factor XI, and Factor XII, and inhibits the activity of Factor VIIa-tissue factor complex. The overall effect is the prevention of clot formation and growth.

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 experience no side effects or only mild ones. If you have any 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. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

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 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 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. To minimize the risk of injury, exercise caution and take preventive measures such as using a soft toothbrush and an electric razor.

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 may occur up to several weeks after discontinuing the medication. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor. It is crucial to undergo blood tests as directed by your doctor and to discuss any findings with them.

This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests. Therefore, it is vital to inform all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.

In the event of 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 contain sulfites.

Individuals over 60 years old should exercise caution when using this medication, 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. 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. It is necessary to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.

• Other anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban): Increased risk of bleeding.
• Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel): Increased risk of bleeding.
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib): Increased risk of bleeding.
• Thrombolytic agents (e.g., alteplase, tenecteplase): Increased risk of bleeding.
• Dextran: Increased risk of bleeding.

• Nitroglycerin (IV): May decrease heparin's anticoagulant effect (monitor aPTT).
• Digoxin: May decrease digoxin levels.
• Tetracyclines: May decrease heparin's anticoagulant effect.
• Antihistamines: May decrease heparin's anticoagulant effect.

• Unusual bleeding or bruising (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding, blood in urine or stool, excessive bruising)
• Petechiae (small red spots on skin)
• Signs of internal bleeding (e.g., severe headache, dizziness, weakness, abdominal pain, swelling, joint pain)
• Signs of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) such as new or worsening thrombosis, skin lesions at injection sites, or sudden drop in platelet count.

Heparin does not cross the placenta and is generally considered the anticoagulant of choice for pregnant women requiring anticoagulation, especially in the first trimester. However, it is classified as Pregnancy Category C due to some animal studies showing adverse effects at high doses, and potential for maternal bleeding or osteoporosis with long-term use.

Heparin is considered safe during breastfeeding. It is a large molecule and is not excreted into breast milk in clinically significant amounts.

Dosing is weight-based and requires careful titration and monitoring (aPTT or anti-Xa levels) due to differences in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics compared to adults. Higher doses per kg may be required in neonates and infants.

Increased risk of bleeding due to age-related physiological changes (e.g., decreased renal function, increased capillary fragility, concomitant medications). Close monitoring of aPTT/anti-Xa and signs of bleeding is crucial. Lower starting doses may be considered.

• Heparin is highly variable in its anticoagulant effect; therefore, continuous IV infusions require frequent laboratory monitoring (aPTT or anti-Xa) and dose adjustments based on institutional nomograms.
• Subcutaneous heparin is typically used for prophylaxis and does not require routine aPTT monitoring, but platelet counts should be monitored for HIT.
• Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious, immune-mediated complication that can lead to paradoxical thrombosis. Monitor platelet counts closely (e.g., every 2-3 days) from day 4 to 14 of therapy, or earlier if prior heparin exposure.
• Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin overdose. 1 mg of protamine sulfate neutralizes approximately 100 units of heparin.
• Avoid intramuscular injections in patients receiving heparin due to the risk of hematoma formation.
• Heparin is often used as a bridge to warfarin therapy, with heparin continued for at least 5 days and until INR is therapeutic for at least 24 hours.

• Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWHs) (e.g., enoxaparin, dalteparin): For VTE prophylaxis and treatment, ACS.
• Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) (e.g., dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban): For VTE treatment and prophylaxis, stroke prevention in AF.
• Warfarin: For long-term anticoagulation.
• Fondaparinux: For VTE prophylaxis and treatment, ACS.

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 and effective use of your medication, never share your prescription with others, and do not take medication that has been prescribed to someone else.

Store all medications in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is crucial. Do not dispose of medications by flushing them down the toilet or pouring them down the drain unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare professional or pharmacist. If you are unsure about the correct disposal method, consult with your pharmacist, who can provide guidance on the best approach. Additionally, you may want to inquire about potential drug take-back programs in your area, which can offer a safe and environmentally responsible way to dispose of unwanted medications.

It is possible that your medication 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, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider for guidance and support.

In the event of a suspected overdose, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or visit the emergency room right away. When seeking help, be prepared to provide as much information as possible about the overdose, including the name of the medication, the amount taken, and the time it was taken. This information will help healthcare professionals provide the most effective treatment and care.