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When administered alone, protamine (protamines) has an anticoagulant effect. However, when it is given in the presence of heparin (which is strongly acidic), a stable salt is formed which results in the loss of anticoagulant activity of both drugs.

Protamine sulfate (protamine (protamines) s) has a rapid onset of action.

Neutralization of heparin occurs within five minutes after intravenous administration. Although the metabolic fate of the heparin-protamine (protamines) complex has not been elucidated, it has been postulated that protamine sulfate (protamine (protamines) s) in the heparin-protamine (protamines) complex may be partially metabolized or may be attacked by fibrinolysin, thus freeing heparin.

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/21/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.