Heparin Overdose Symptoms
Heparin is a blood-thinning drug with anticoagulant properties manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Baxter Healthcare. However, some recent events, including several overdoses and deaths may prove that Heparin is not as safe as what doctors once thought.
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Primary Signs of Overdosage
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The primary sign of a Heparin overdose is bleeding. This includes nose bleeds, bloody urine and even tar-like stool. Another primary sign of Heparin overdose is easy bruising. If you suddenly find yourself bruising easier than normal, or if you experience any of the other effects listed above, you'll want to contact your doctor immediately.
Other Serious Side Effects
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Apart from bleeding or bruising there are several serious side effects that may indicate an overdose of Heparin. Any signs of hemorrhaging, irritation or generalized hypersensitivity should be considered by your doctor.
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Risk of Death
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As of February 2008, Baxter Healthcare ceased distribution of their multiple-dose vials of the drug Heparin after four reported deaths and many more adverse reactions.
Treating An Overdose
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Treating an overdose of Heparin should always be done by a medical professional. An injection of protamine sulfate can be used to reverse the overdose, with approximately 1 mg of protamine sulfate required for every 100 USP Heparin units.
Who Shouldn't Take Heparin
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In order to decrease the risk of overdose or other serious side effects, Heparin should not be used by patients with severe thrombocytopenia.
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