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Heparin Antidote

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A heparin antidote is any substance that can be used to counteract overdose or severe heparin side effects associated with. Made by Baxter Healthcare, heparin is an injectable medication that prevents blood clots and is used in the treatment of:

  • atrial fibrillation, irregular heartbeats
  • deep vein thrombosis, blood clots lodged in the body's deep veins (especially in the legs)
  • peripheral arterial embolism, blood clots stuck in the large arteries of the arms and/or legs
  • pulmonary embolism, life-threatening blood clots lodged in the lungs that significantly impede breathing and re-oxygenation of the blood

Regardless of its effectiveness, however, heparin use has been linked to a range of severe side effects, particularly in the following situations:

  • when heparin overdoses occur
  • with patients over 60
  • when patients have a history of bleeding disorders, liver disease, kidney problems, hypertension and/or heart infections

Heparin Antidote Protamine Sulfate

Protamine sulfate is a heparin antidote that works against the anti-coagulating effects of heparin by binding to the drug and making it ineffective.

Originally derived from the sperm of salmon, protamine sulfate can only effectively counteract heparin if 1mg of protamine sulfate is administered for every 100 IU of active heparin received.

It's important to note that Vitamin K, which is effective at promoting blood clotting, is not an effective heparin antidote, as Vitamin K cannot stop heparin from working (like protamine sulfate does).

Heparin Antidote Side Effects

Unfortunately, using protamine sulfate to stop the effects of heparin can have its own complications, including:

  • constricting the lung's airways (bronchoconstriction)
  • dramatically increasing or decreasing blood pressure
  • severe allergic reaction, characterized by facial or tongue swelling, breathing difficulties and/or skin rash
  • promoting anti-coagulation (if large enough doses are administered)

If left untreated, some heparin antidote side effects can be life threatening. To minimize risk of developing any of the above health complications, it's vital that heparin patients discuss their complete medical history with their doctor before starting a course of the heparin drug or heparin antidote.

Lawsuits Following Heparin and Protamine Sulfate Complications

Patients injured after using heparin and/or protamine sulfate will likely be entitled to compensation by pursuing a heparin lawsuit against the drug maker/manufacturer and, in cases of overdose or allergic reactions, the medical provider who administered the drug.

Affected individuals can find out if they have a case by setting up a free initial consultation with an experienced heparin lawyer. An experienced heparin lawyer will investigate the details of your situation to determine the cause of injury and will have the tools necessary to develop a strong argument for your case.

To encourage injured patients to seek out the compensation they deserve, heparin lawyers delay payment for their services until a court award or heparin settlement is won.

If You Have Been Injured by Heparin

Have you or a loved one been injured after taking Heparin? If so, contact us to speak with an experienced Heparin attorney who specializes in drug recall litigation & lawsuits. Let us help you win the compensation you need and deserve.

Contact a Heparin Recall Lawyer