Louisiana medical providers in hospitals treat a broad range of patients, and each case is unique. In some cases, doctors believe the administration of strong medications is necessary. We often represent clients who have devastating injures due to severe medication interactions.
The Mayo Clinic states that Heparin is an anticoagulant. When you receive an injection, it can prevent harmful clots from forming in the blood vessels. Although it does not eliminate existing blood clots, it can prevent them from getting larger, causing more serious problems.
Heparin benefits
At the hospital, doctors may give you an anticoagulant such as Heparin, Coumadin, Pradaxa or Plavix if you experience or are at risk of various conditions that may lead to stroke or heart attack. These conditions include atrial fibrillation, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis. Healthcare workers also use this type of medication during medical procedures, such as kidney dialysis or bypass surgery.
In the emergency room, doctors may give you Heparin if you require urgent intervention for a stroke or DVT event. No oral form of Heparin is available, which means hospitals are the primary use setting.
Heparin dangers
While this powerful drug can benefit patients with clotting issues, it can also cause significant harm. It may interact with vitamin supplements and medications you already take. One of the most common side-effects is spontaneous bleeding. Interactions that can increase the potential for and severity of side-effects include the following:
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
- Hydroxychloroquine
- Herbal supplements such as garlic, fish oil and ginkgo biloba
- Antiplatelet drugs (i.e., dipyridamole, clopidogrel)
Antihistamines, nitrates, nicotine and certain antibiotics can make anticoagulants less effective.
Due to the potential dangers, healthcare workers must explain the risks and possible complications before administering Heparin as well as the benefits. If an alternative exists, he or she must provide information regarding that as well. If you or a loved one suffered harm due to a lack of informed consent, you might have grounds for a malpractice claim.
