Heparin
Heparin is a fast-acting, naturally occurring anticoagulant. It works by activating antithrombin III, which blocks thrombin and other clotting factors (like Factor Xa), thereby preventing the formation of fibrin clots and inhibiting the growth of existing clots. Because it is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, it must be administered parenterally (either intravenously or subcutaneously).
Dosage by Body Weight
Heparin dosage is highly individualized and must be adjusted based on the patient's coagulation test results (specifically Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time, or aPTT). It should only be administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 28 units/kg/hour IV.
- Frequency
- Continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Infants require higher doses per kg than adults due to a larger volume of distribution and lower antithrombin levels. Strict clinical and laboratory monitoring is required.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20-28 units/kg/hour IV.
- Frequency
- Continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Maintain aPTT in the therapeutic range (usually 1.5 to 2.5 times the control limit). Monitor platelet counts regularly to screen for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20 units/kg/hour IV.
- Frequency
- Continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Individualize dose. Ensure protamine sulfate (the antidote) is readily available in case of life-threatening bleeding.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20 units/kg/hour IV.
- Frequency
- Continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor closely for signs of bleeding, such as hematuria, epistaxis, or bruising. Check platelet levels every 2 to 3 days.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 18-20 units/kg/hour IV.
- Frequency
- Continuous infusion
- Tracking Notes
- Adjust dosage based on clinical response and aPTT levels drawn 4 to 6 hours after any dosage change.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 28 units/kg/hour IV. | Continuous infusion | Infants require higher doses per kg than adults due to a larger volume of distribution and lower antithrombin levels. Strict clinical and laboratory monitoring is required. |
| 5-7 kg | Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20-28 units/kg/hour IV. | Continuous infusion | Maintain aPTT in the therapeutic range (usually 1.5 to 2.5 times the control limit). Monitor platelet counts regularly to screen for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). |
| 8-10 kg | Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20 units/kg/hour IV. | Continuous infusion | Individualize dose. Ensure protamine sulfate (the antidote) is readily available in case of life-threatening bleeding. |
| 11-15 kg | Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20 units/kg/hour IV. | Continuous infusion | Monitor closely for signs of bleeding, such as hematuria, epistaxis, or bruising. Check platelet levels every 2 to 3 days. |
| 16-20 kg | Loading: 75 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 18-20 units/kg/hour IV. | Continuous infusion | Adjust dosage based on clinical response and aPTT levels drawn 4 to 6 hours after any dosage change. |
Formulation
Purpose
Heparin is an anticoagulant (blood thinner) used to prevent and treat blood clots in the veins, arteries, or lungs (pulmonary embolism). It is also used before surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots, and in low doses to maintain the patency of intravenous catheters.
Generic Name
Heparin SodiumBranded Drug Names
Heparin is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.