Heparin
Fast-acting anticoagulant. Its effects can be rapidly reversed with Protamine, making it useful during surgeries.
Dosage by Body Weight
Pediatric loading: 75-100 units/kg IV. Maintenance: 20-28 units/kg/hour infusion. Titrate to aPTT levels.
- Body Weight
- Infants/Children
- Dose
- Continuous Infusion
- Frequency
- Constant
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor for bleeding and low platelets (HIT).
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infants/Children | Continuous Infusion | Constant | Monitor for bleeding and low platelets (HIT). |
Formulation
Purpose
Anticoagulation for heart-lung bypass and acute treatment of blood clots.
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.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
CAUTIONHeparin: Alcohol can increase bleeding risk or interfere with clotting control. Avoid or limit alcohol and seek medical advice.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONHeparin: Use during pregnancy only under specialist direction; some blood-thinning medicines are unsafe in pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
SAFE IF PRESCRIBEDHeparin: Use while breastfeeding only with healthcare provider guidance and monitoring where needed.
Driving
SAFEHeparin: Usually does not impair alertness, but avoid driving if bleeding, weakness, dizziness, or illness occurs.
Liver
CAUTIONHeparin: Liver disease can increase bleeding risk and affect clotting. Use only with medical monitoring.
Kidney
CAUTIONHeparin: Kidney impairment can affect dosing or bleeding risk for some anticoagulants. Monitoring may be required.