Anticoagulation

Question 1

Unfractionated heparin

• Class
• MoA
• Side effects
• Monitoring
• Extra info

Answer 1

Class:
Anticoagulant

MoA:
Forms a complex which inhibits thrombin, factors Xa, IXa, XIa and XIIa.

Side effects:
Bleeding, thrombocytopenia - higher in unfractionated, osteoporosis and an increased risk of fractures, hyperkalaemia

Monitoring:
APTT

Extra info:
Intravenously administered, short-acting and favoured in renal compromise

Question 2

LMWH Heparin

• Class
• MoA
• Side effects
• Monitoring
• Extra info

Answer 2

Class:
Anticoagulation

MoA:
Increases the action of antithrombin III on factor Xa

Side effects:
Bleeding, lower risk of HIT and osteoporosis with LMWH

Monitoring:
Factor Xa levels (if monitoring required).

Extra info:
Subcutaneously administered and long-acting.