Heparin Reversal Protocol

Blood thinners can be life-saving, but they can also be killers.

Heparin is an injected blood thinner widely used in hospitals for patients with coronary artery disease and blood clots. Sometimes, too concentrated a dose is used, causing bruising and bleeding, or in worse cases, hemorrhage or an allergic reaction to the drug can lead to death. Reversal protocols differ depending on the severity of the reaction.

Mild Reactions

Mild reactions to heparin include pain, redness, warmth or irritation at the injection site. If any of these signs persist or worsen, the doctor should be notified so he can decide whether you should continue with the drug. In these cases, the only reversal protocol is discontinuing heparin and choosing another drug.

Allergic Reactions

Some patients have allergic reactions to heparin, which is derived from pig intestines, or due to the preservatives added to keep the product fresh. According to Rxlist.com, any of these reactions could indicate an allergic reaction: nausea, vomiting, sweating, hives, itching, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or a feeling that you might pass out.

Immediate cessation of the drug and emergency medical help should be sought to control the allergic reaction. Platelet counts should be monitored.

Reversing Damage

In rare cases, hemorrhage due to heparin can affect any part of the body, especially the liver, ovaries or the tissue that lines the abdominal wall and covers most of the organs in the abdomen. Hemorrhage is a serious, medical event. Often, when overdose or hemorrhage occurs, protamine sulfate, administered intravenously, is a quick antidote, often stopping bleeding in a matter of minutes.Only medical personnel should undertake reversal of heparin.

References

• Heparin Side Effects and Drug Interactions
• Rxlist.com: What Are the Possible Side Effects of Heparin?
• Heparin Dosing