Heparin

Question 1

What is heparin?

Answer 1

Heparin is an anticoagulant agent which combines with anti-thrombin III to inhibit factor X and the conversion of pro-thrombin to thrombin.

Presentation:
Ampoule 5000 units / 5mL

Onset - Approx. 30 sec
Duration - 3-6 hours
Half life - 1.5 hours

Question 2

What are the indications for heparin?

Answer 2

1. Patients with STEMI who have been accepted for pPCI.

Question 3

List the contraindications for heparin.

Answer 3

ABSOLUTE:
1. Allergy / ADR
2. Patients less than 18 years
3. Active bleeding (excluding menses) OR clotting problem (haemophilia)
4. Prior intracranial haemorrhage
5. Current use of anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin)

RELATIVE:
1. Uncontrolled hypertension (SBP >180 and/or DBP >110) at any stage during interaction.
2. Known cerebral disease (malignant intracranial neoplasm or arteriovenous malformation)
3. Ischaemic stroke or TIA withing last 3 months
4. Hx of significant head/facial trauma within last 3 months
5. Hx of major trauma or surgery (including laser eye surgery) within last 6 weeks

Question 4

Precautions for heparin.

Answer 4

Renal impairment

Question 5

Side effects of heparin?

Answer 5

1. Haemorrhage
2. Thrombocytopenia

Question 6

What is the dose for heparin?

Answer 6

5000 units IV or dose requested by cardiologist.

Single dose only.