Heparin Sodium (Heparin Sodium, Porcine)

Do’s

• Heparin Sodium is typically given by injection into a vein or under the skin as directed by a healthcare provider. The dosage and frequency of use of this medication are determined based on the individual's medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
• Use the correct strength of Heparin Solution as prescribed by your healthcare provider to avoid serious complications. Always check the package label to ensure the correct strength before administering the injection.
• If self-administering Heparin Sodium at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare provider. Additionally, visually inspect the product for particles or discoloration before use, and learn proper storage and disposal methods.
• For patients injecting Heparin Sodium into a vein, the catheter/line should be flushed with normal saline before and after infusing drugs that interact with heparin.
• When injecting Heparin Sodium under the skin, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol and change the injection site each time to minimize injury.
• Use of Heparin Sodium at consistent times each day to maximize its benefits.
• In some cases, a healthcare provider may direct a patient to switch to an anticoagulant taken by mouth, such as warfarin. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions when transitioning to a new medication.

Don’ts

• Heparin Sodium should not be injected into a muscle.

Common Side Effects:

• Abdominal or stomach pain or swelling
• Back pain or backaches
• Bleeding from the gums when brushing teeth
• Blood in the urine
• Constipation
• Coughing up blood
• Dizziness
• Headaches, severe or continuing
• Heavy bleeding or oozing from cuts or wounds
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
• Menstrual bleeding, unexpected or unusually heavy
• Unexplained bruising or purplish areas on the skin
• Unexplained nosebleeds
• Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• Blood under the skin (blood blister) at the place of injection

Rare Side Effects:

• Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
• Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis
• Generalized hypersensitivity reactions
• Heparin resistance

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and others may occur. If any of these side effects occur while using Heparin Sodium, seek medical attention promptly. 

Heparin therapy may lead to hemorrhage, which is the chief complication associated with its use. Gastrointestinal or urinary tract bleeding during anticoagulant therapy may indicate the presence of an underlying occult lesion. Be vigilant for signs of bleeding and seek medical attention if any unusual bleeding occurs.

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT) can occur, and patients presenting with thrombocytopenia or thrombosis after discontinuation of heparin should be evaluated for these conditions.

Thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by a low platelet count, is a potential adverse effect of heparin sodium. Patients should be monitored for changes in platelet levels during heparin therapy.

Heparin resistance, a condition where the patient does not respond adequately to heparin therapy, is a potential concern. Healthcare providers should be aware of this possibility and consider alternative treatments if necessary.

Hypersensitivity reactions to heparin, including allergic responses, may occur. Patients with known allergies to heparin, pork products, or other relevant ingredients should inform their healthcare providers before using Heparin Sodium.

Additional considerations include the potential for adrenal hemorrhage, ovarian (corpus luteum) hemorrhage, retroperitoneal hemorrhage, local irritation at the injection site, and histamine-like reactions. These reactions should be monitored, and any concerning symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Individuals using Heparin Sodium to be aware of these warnings and precautions and to promptly report any concerning symptoms or side effects to their healthcare provider. Additionally, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or allergies before using this medication to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.