|  | Conditions Treatments | Blood Disorders

Side Effects of Heparin

Heparin is an anticoagulant, or blood thinner, that works to prevent the formation of blood clots in users. The medication is used in treatment of blood clots in arteries, veins and the lungs. As with any other type of blood thinning medication, there are a number of side effects that have been associated with using the drug.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • There are certain common side effects that have been reported after using Heparin. Some of these side effects include mild pain, redness, skin changes, mild itching of the feet and bluish-colored skin. While these are considered the most common side effects of the medication, they only affect a small number of users.

    Severe Side Effects

    • Unfortunately, some users have also reported some severe side effects as a result of using this medication. Some of these side effects include sudden weakness or numbness in one side of the body, sudden headache, problems with vision, problems with speech and balance, pain or swelling in the legs, trouble breathing, fever, chills, watery eyes and headaches. These side effects are considered 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 that result in uncontrolled bleeding. If you have any of the following conditions, you may have to adjust dosage requirements or pass a special test before using the medication: infection in the lining of the heart, high blood pressure, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, a stomach or intestinal disorder, liver disease or if you have your menstrual cycle.

    Usage

    • Heparin is administered as an injection into your skin through a fine needle inserted into one of your veins. The injection is always done by a health professional and should never be done at home or on your own. Be sure to only use each needle one time and to dispose of the used syringes in a sanitary and safe way. During the course of your treatment, you will need to be given constant blood tests to ensure the drug is working properly.

    Warning

    • If you experience any of the side effects listed in this article, consult your doctor immediately.

      If you miss a dose of the medication, contact your doctor for instructions on how to continue treatment.

      Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have overdosed on Heparin.

Blood Disorders - Related Articles