Heparin is a heterogeneous group of straight-chain anionic mucopolysaccharides, called glycosaminoglycans, having anticoagulant properties. Although others may be present, the main sugars occurring in heparin are: (1) _-L-iduronic acid 2-sulfate, (2) 2-deoxy-2- sulfamino-_-D-glucose 6-sulfate, (3) _-D-glucuronic acid, (4) 2 acetamido-2-deoxy-_-Dglucose and (5) _-L-iduronic acid. These sugars are present in decreasing amounts, usually in the order (2) > (1) > (4) > (3) > (5), and are joined by glycosidic linkages, forming polymers of varying sizes. Heparin is strongly acidic because of its content of covalently linked sulfate and carboxylic acid groups. In heparin sodium (heparin sodium injection preservative free) , the acidic protons of the sulfate units are partially replaced by sodium ions.

Heparin Sodium (heparin sodium injection preservative free) Injection, USP is a sterile solution of heparin sodium (heparin sodium injection preservative free) derived from porcine intestinal mucosa, standardized for anticoagulant activity, in water for injection. It is to be administered by intravenous or deep subcutaneous routes. The potency is determined by a biological assay using a USP reference standard based on units of heparin activity per milligram.

Structure of Heparin Sodium (heparin sodium injection preservative free) (representative subunits):

Heparin Sodium Injection, USP (porcine) is available as follows:

Each 1,000 Units/mL contains: 1,000 USP Heparin Units (porcine); 9 mg sodium chloride; Water for Injection q.s. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may have been added for pH adjustment (5.0-7.5).

Last reviewed on RxList: 12/29/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.