Heparin Cardiovascular Treatment Protocol

If you have cardiovascular problems, you may be prescribed heparin, often referred to by its brand names of Hep-Lock or Hep-Pak CVC. Heparin is an anticoagulant, which means it can impede or stop the coagulation of your blood. This reduces the likelihood of a blood clot forming within the blood vessels of your body. This can be beneficial for certain cardiovascular disorders such as atrial fibrillation or conditions that could cause acute coronary syndrome.

Heparin

• Heparin is a prescription medication typically administered intravenously by a medical professional. The injection is either given directly into a vein or just under the skin. Dosage is based on your diagnosis and condition.

  Through your course of treatment with heparin, blood will be drawn to ensure that the medication is working and isn't having an adverse effect on your body.

  While using heparin it's important to avoid using medications that thin your blood, unless prescribed by your doctor. Over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin could trigger bleeding, since your blood can thin as you use these types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers.

Side Effects

• Heparin increases the potential of bleeding and bruising. Pain along the injection sight is one of the more common side effects, and you may have skin irritation isolated to the feet as well as discoloration of the skin. Headaches and imbalance are potential side effects, as well as numbness, weakness, swelling, nausea, upset stomach, respiratory difficulties and a change in vision or speech. In any of these situations, contact your doctor. It may be necessary to adjust the dose of the medication or switch you to a different drug.