Side Effects of Heparin Shots

Heparin is an anticoagulant, or blood thinner, which aids in the prevention of blood clots in the veins, heart and lungs of users. This medication works by blocking certain chemical reactions in the body that lead to blood clots. As with most medications, a number of side effects are associated with using Heparin.

Common Side Effects

• Some relatively mild side effects may include redness, warmth, mild pain, mild itching of the feet, bluish colored skin, and skin changes in the area where the medication is injected. While these are considered the most common side effects associated with using Heparin, they only affect a small number of users.

Severe Side Effects

• Unfortunately, some severe side effects are associated with using this drug. Some of these side effects include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, sudden headache, problems with speech or vision, general balance problems, confusion, swelling in the hands and legs, trouble breathing, chills, fever, and flu-like symptoms. These side effects are also very rare and only affect a small number of users.

Important Safety Information

• Do not use this medication if you are allergic to Heparin or if you have a severe lack of platelets in your blood. Also, please consult with your doctor if you have any of the following ailments: infection of the heart lining, high blood pressure, a blood or clotting disorder, liver disease, or if you are on your menstrual cycle. This medication is classified as FDA pregnancy level C, meaning that it is unknown whether or not this medication can hurt an unborn baby.

Usage

• Always use Heparin in direct conjunction with your doctor's orders and never take this medication in excess of the instructions written on the label. This medication is administered through injection into the veins and should never be injected into a muscle. To ensure that Heparin is improving your condition, regular blood tests will be required by your doctor. Never use Heparin if the medication has changed color suddenly for any reason.

Warning

• If you experience any of the aforementioned side effects, please contact your local physician immediately.

  If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison center and head directly to the emergency room.

  Heparin is meant for the treatment as an anticoagulant only and should never be used recreationally.