Additional Information

Description

Heparin Sodium 5000 units/mL is an anticoagulant medication commonly used to prevent and treat blood clots in various medical conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and during certain surgeries, particularly cardiovascular and orthopedic procedures. It is administered via intravenous or subcutaneous injection.

Heparin works by inhibiting the activity of clotting factors, primarily thrombin and factor Xa, through its binding with antithrombin III. This inhibition decreases the ability of blood to clot, reducing the risk of thrombus formation. Heparin does not dissolve existing clots but prevents the formation of new ones and helps in preventing the extension of existing clots.

As a potent anticoagulant, heparin must be used with caution due to the risk of bleeding. Common side effects include bleeding, bruising, and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). More severe adverse effects, such as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), may occur in rare cases.