Heparin Sod/nacl 25000u Inj, 500ml
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
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
- Avoid activities that increase your risk of bleeding or injury (e.g., contact sports, using sharp objects carelessly).
- Use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor to minimize bleeding.
- Inform all healthcare providers (including dentists) that you are taking heparin.
- Avoid over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, or other drugs that can increase bleeding risk (e.g., aspirin, NSAIDs, ginkgo biloba) without consulting your doctor.
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
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
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 or hives
+ Itching or red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever)
+ Wheezing or tightness in the chest or throat
+ Difficulty 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
As with any medication, you may experience side effects. While many people do not have any side effects or only have mild ones, it is essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience 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:
- Any unusual bleeding or bruising (e.g., nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in urine or stool, black/tarry stools, excessive bruising, petechiae, heavy menstrual bleeding)
- Severe headache, dizziness, or weakness (may indicate internal bleeding)
- Sudden, severe pain or swelling in a limb (could be a new clot or bleeding)
- Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing)
Before Using This Medicine
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 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 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. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
While taking this drug, you may experience easier bleeding. To minimize the risk of injury, be cautious and take precautions 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, 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 discontinuing the medication. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. It is crucial to undergo blood tests as directed by your doctor and to consult with them regularly.
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.
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 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 this product contains benzyl alcohol and to discuss potential risks.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is necessary to discuss the benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Excessive bleeding (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding, hematuria, melena, hematemesis, excessive bruising, petechiae)
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
- Shock
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention. The antidote for heparin overdose is protamine sulfate, which neutralizes heparin's anticoagulant effect. Call 911 or your local emergency number. For non-emergencies, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- History of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT)
- Active major bleeding
- Severe thrombocytopenia
- Uncontrolled severe hypertension
- Recent brain, spinal, or eye surgery
- Bacterial endocarditis
Major Interactions
- Other anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban) - increased bleeding risk
- Antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel) - increased bleeding risk
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib) - increased bleeding risk
- Thrombolytic agents (e.g., alteplase, tenecteplase) - increased bleeding risk
- Dextran - increased bleeding risk
Moderate Interactions
- Herbal supplements (e.g., ginkgo biloba, garlic, ginger, dong quai, feverfew) - potential increased bleeding risk
- SSRIs/SNRIs - potential increased bleeding risk
- Corticosteroids (long-term use) - potential increased bleeding risk
Minor Interactions
- Nitroglycerin (IV) - may decrease heparin effect (monitor aPTT)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline platelet count and assess for anemia or other hematologic abnormalities before initiating therapy. Essential for monitoring for Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT).
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To establish baseline coagulation status. Used to monitor therapeutic effect of unfractionated heparin.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To establish baseline coagulation status, especially if transitioning to warfarin or if liver dysfunction is suspected.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To assess kidney function, as severe renal impairment can affect heparin clearance and increase sensitivity.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Rationale: To assess liver function, as severe hepatic impairment can affect synthesis of clotting factors and increase bleeding risk.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Every 4-6 hours after initiation or dose change, then daily once therapeutic range is stable (for continuous IV infusion). Not typically monitored for prophylactic SC doses.
Target: aPTT: 1.5-2.5 times control (specific range varies by lab); Anti-Xa: 0.3-0.7 units/mL (for therapeutic use)
Action Threshold: Adjust infusion rate based on institutional nomogram or protocol to achieve target range. If above range, hold infusion and recheck; if below, increase infusion rate.
Frequency: Every 2-3 days during therapy, especially between days 5-14, or if new thrombosis or skin lesions develop.
Target: Normal range (e.g., 150,000-450,000/ยตL)
Action Threshold: If platelet count drops by >50% from baseline or falls below 100,000/ยตL, suspect HIT and discontinue heparin immediately. Initiate alternative anticoagulant.
Frequency: Continuously
Target: Absence of bleeding
Action Threshold: Any signs of bleeding (e.g., hematuria, melena, epistaxis, ecchymosis, petechiae, gum bleeding, excessive bruising, unexplained drop in hemoglobin/hematocrit) require immediate assessment and potential intervention (e.g., dose reduction, discontinuation, administration of protamine sulfate).
Symptom Monitoring
- Unusual bleeding or bruising (e.g., nosebleeds, gum bleeding, blood in urine or stool, black/tarry stools, excessive bruising, petechiae)
- 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.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Heparin is generally considered the anticoagulant of choice during pregnancy because it does not cross the placenta and therefore does not cause fetal anticoagulation or teratogenic effects. However, close monitoring is required due to physiological changes in pregnancy affecting heparin pharmacokinetics and increased risk of bleeding.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Heparin is considered safe during breastfeeding. It is a large molecule and is not excreted into breast milk in clinically significant amounts. It is also poorly absorbed orally by the infant.
Pediatric Use
Dosing is weight-based and often requires careful titration and monitoring of aPTT or anti-Xa levels. Neonates and infants may require higher doses per kg due to higher antithrombin levels and faster clearance. Risk of bleeding is present, and careful monitoring is crucial.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of heparin and have an increased risk of bleeding. Lower initial doses or more conservative dosing strategies may be considered. Close monitoring of aPTT/anti-Xa and for signs of bleeding is essential.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Heparin is dosed in units, not milligrams. Ensure correct unit conversion and concentration (e.g., 25,000 units in 500 mL = 50 units/mL).
- Always verify the concentration of heparin before administration to prevent dosing errors.
- Monitor aPTT (or anti-Xa) and platelet count closely. A significant drop in platelets (>50% from baseline or <100,000/ยตL) should prompt evaluation for Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT).
- Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin overdose. 1 mg of protamine neutralizes approximately 100 units of heparin.
- Subcutaneous heparin should be administered in the abdomen, at least 2 inches from the navel, using a 90-degree angle, and without aspiration or rubbing after injection to minimize bruising.
- Heparin can cause hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment or those taking potassium-sparing diuretics or ACE inhibitors.
- Avoid intramuscular (IM) injections due to the risk of hematoma formation.
Alternative Therapies
- Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWH) (e.g., enoxaparin, dalteparin) - for VTE treatment and prophylaxis, often preferred for outpatient use.
- Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) (e.g., dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban) - for VTE treatment and prophylaxis, and stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation.
- Warfarin (Vitamin K Antagonist) - for long-term anticoagulation.
- Fondaparinux (Synthetic Factor Xa Inhibitor) - for VTE treatment and prophylaxis.