According to the American Heart Association, blood clots prevent healthy blood flow, which can reduce the amount reaching your organs. If they occur in a coronary artery or veins, they could cause a pulmonary event. Although Heparin can help the issue, it could have devastating results when incorrectly administered or improperly prescribed.
Heparin benefits
Heparin is one of several drugs known as anticoagulants. Also known as blood thinners, they can prolong clotting time by preventing or reducing blood coagulation. Since there is no oral form of the medication available, hospitals are the primary use setting. A doctor may give you Heparin if you experience or at risk of a condition that leads to a heart attack or stroke. Conditions include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and atrial fibrillation.
You may receive a blood thinner during particular medical procedures, such as bypass surgery or kidney dialysis. Emergency room doctors use Heparin for urgent intervention if you have a DVT event or stroke.
Heparin hazards
This potent medication can help prevent or minimize the severity of issues caused as a result of clotting. However, it can also cause harm as it may interact with other medications or supplements that you take. Interactions may increase the severity of spontaneous bleeding, which is a common side-effect. Drugs that frequently impact Heparin’s effects include the following:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel and dipyridamole
- Hydroxychloroquine
Healthcare workers must explain the potential complications and risks as well as the benefits before administering this anticoagulant. Medical professionals must also provide information regarding drug options. If a loved one received Heparin and suffered a fatal medical event due to a lack of informed consent, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim.
