Heparin (Heparin) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Heparin

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) »

Introduction to deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Arteries have thin muscles within their walls to be able to withstand the pressure of the heart pumping blood to the far reaches of the body. Veins don't have a significant muscle lining, and there is nothing pumping blood back to the heart except physiology. Blood returns to the heart because the body's large muscles squeeze the veins as they contract in their normal activity of moving the body. The normal activities of moving the body returns the blood back to the heart.

There are two types of veins in the leg; superficial veins and deep veins. Superficial veins lie just below the skin and are easily seen on the surface. Deep veins, as their name implies, are located deep within the muscles of the leg. Blood flows from the superficial veins into the deep venous system through small perforator veins. Superficial and perforator veins have one-way valves within them that allow blood to flow only in the direc...

Read the Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) article »

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Heparin Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

HEPARIN - INJECTION

(HEP-uh-rin)

USES: This medication is used to prevent and treat blood clots. It may be used to treat blood clots in the lungs/legs. It may also be used to prevent blood clots after surgery, during dialysis, when collecting blood samples, or when a person is unable to move for a long time. Heparin helps to keep blood flowing smoothly by making a certain natural substance in your body (anti-clotting protein) work better. It is known as an anticoagulant.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by injection into a vein or under the skin (subcutaneously) as directed by your doctor. Do not inject this medication into a muscle. Dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.

Heparin comes in many strengths. Serious (sometimes fatal) errors have occurred when the wrong strength was used. Check that you are using the correct strength and dose before injecting this medication.

If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

For products given under the skin, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol before injecting each dose. It is important to change the location of the injection site daily to avoid problem areas under the skin.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. It is important to continue using this medication even if you feel well. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Your doctor may direct you to switch to an anticoagulant taken by mouth (e.g., warfarin). Use this medication and any new medication exactly as directed by your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.