Drugs & Vitamins

Active Ingredients: Heparin in Sodium Chloride
Other Names: Heparin Sodium in Sodium Chloride for Injection
Drug Class: Heparin
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are Heparin Sodium in Sodium Chloride for Injection? (Back to top)
HEPARIN is an anticoagulant. It is used to treat or prevent clots in the veins, arteries, lungs, or heart. It stops clots from forming or getting bigger. This medicine prevents clotting during open-heart surgery, dialysis, or in patients who are confined to bed. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia or low blood platelets
• bowel disease or diverticulitis
• endocarditis
• high blood pressure
• liver disease
• recent surgery or delivery of a baby
• stomach ulcers
• an unusual or allergic reaction to heparin, benzyl alcohol, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is given by injection or infusion into a vein. It can also be given by injection of small amounts under the skin. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medicine at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)
Do not take this medicine with any of the following:

• aspirin and aspirin-like drugs
• mifepristone
• medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin, enoxaparin, and dalteparin
• protamine

• dextran
• digoxin
• hydroxychloroquine
• medicines for treating colds or allergies
• nicotine
• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
• phenylbutazone
• tetracycline antibiotics

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• any sign of bleeding like bruising, pinpoint red spots on the skin, black, tarry stools, blood in the urine, bleeding gums, nosebleeds
• back pain
• bleeding in the eye
• breathing problems
• burning or itching on the bottoms of the feet
• cold, blue, or painful hands and feet
• coughing up blood
• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
• fever, chills
• heavy menstrual bleeding
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain
• unusually low blood pressure

• pain at site where injected

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
While you are taking this medicine, carry an identification card with your name, the name and dose of medicine(s) being used, and the name and phone number of your doctor or health care professional or person to contact in an emergency.

Notify your doctor or health care professional at once if you have cold, blue hands or feet, or any unusual bleeding. Monitor your skin closely for easy bruising or red spots, which can indicate bleeding.

If you are going to have surgery or dental work, tell your doctor or health care professional that you have received this medicine. Be careful brushing and flossing your teeth or using a toothpick while receiving this medicine because you may bleed more easily.

Avoid sports and activities that might cause injury while you are using this medicine. Severe falls or injuries can cause unseen bleeding. Be careful when using sharp tools or knives. Consider using an electric razor.

Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store unopened vials at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Do not use if solution is discolored or particulate matter is present. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Last Updated:April 18, 2008

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