Pharmacology & Dosage Calculation
Antidote of heparin Is
Antidote of heparin Is
Explanation
Core Concept: Heparin is an anticoagulant that accelerates the action of antithrombin III, inhibiting thrombin and factor Xa. In cases of severe bleeding or overdose, a specific reversal agent is required.
Clinical Presentation:
- Bleeding, bruising, hematuria, or prolonged aPTT.
Diagnosis:
- *First-line:* Coagulation profile (prolonged aPTT).
- *Gold Standard:* Clinical correlation with active bleeding.
Management:
- *Acute:* Administer *Protamine sulfate*, which is a positively charged molecule that binds to the negatively charged heparin to form a stable, inactive complex, rapidly reversing its anticoagulant effect.
- *Definitive:* Monitor aPTT and clinical signs of bleeding; adjust or discontinue heparin therapy.