Heparin Sodium Ingredients and Usage

The active ingredient is Heparin Sodium, a highly sulfated glycosaminoglycan derived from porcine intestinal mucosa. It is administered by continuous intravenous infusion or subcutaneous injection, with dosage carefully titrated based on activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) monitoring and clinical indication.

Heparin Sodium is clinically indicated for:

• Prophylaxis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
• Treatment of atrial fibrillation with embolism
• Prevention of clotting during cardiac and vascular surgery
• Prevention of clotting in extracorporeal circulation during hemodialysis
• Treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)

How Does Heparin Sodium Work?

Heparin Sodium provides anticoagulant effects through antithrombin III activation:

1. Antithrombin III Activation: Binds to antithrombin III, accelerating its inhibitory activity
2. Coagulation Factor Inhibition: Inactivates thrombin (Factor IIa) and Factor Xa
3. Rapid Onset: Provides immediate anticoagulant effect after administration
4. Short Duration: Effects are reversible with protamine sulfate

Heparin Sodium Side Effects and Warnings

Common side effects include bleeding, heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, elevated liver enzymes, and injection site reactions. Most serious adverse effects are related to bleeding complications.

Serious Considerations

1. Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia: May cause HIT type I and type II – monitor platelet counts
2. Bleeding Risk: Significant risk of major bleeding – monitor coagulation parameters regularly
3. Osteoporosis: Long-term use may cause osteoporosis and spontaneous fractures
4. Hyperkalemia: May cause elevated serum potassium levels
5. Regional Anesthesia: Increased risk of spinal hematoma with neuraxial anesthesia

Heparin Sodium Storage Conditions

Heparin Sodium Injection requires proper storage conditions:

• Store below 25°C protected from light
• Keep vials in original packaging
• Protect from freezing
• Use immediately after opening
• Do not use if discolored or contains particles