Heparin: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring

Labeled uses

Heparin Sodium Injection, USP is indicated for: Anticoagulant therapy in prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and its extension; Low-dose regimen for prevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic disease (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION) ; Prophylaxis and treatment of pulmonary embolism; Atrial fibrillation with embolization; Treatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation); Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgery; Prophylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolism. Heparin may also be employed as an anticoagulant in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation, and dialysis procedures.