Pharmacology
Heparin
- Unfractionated heparin: potentiates antithrombin which inactivates thrombin and factor Xa; also inhibits platelet aggregation
- Low-molecular weight heparin (shorter fragments): preferentially affects factor Xa
- Side effects:
- Bleeding
- Thrombocytopenia (may cause paradoxical thrombosis)
- Osteoporosis
- Hypoaldosteronism and hyperkalaemia
- Strongly acidic agents: protamine is…