Heparin

Heparin is designed specifically to treat blood clots in the veins, arteries and lungs. While Heparin has been used for other purposes, addressing blood clots is the most common use for the medication. Some people who use Heparin find that they bleed too much, though this can be corrected by adjusting the dosage. Others find the side effects of Heparin too difficult to handle and are given another type of blood thinning medication instead. For most people who need a strong anticoagulant, Heparin works well and does not cause serious problems. The blood clots that can be seen when Heparin is not used are generally much more serious than most of the problems that may appear in some cases after using Heparin.

Not all blood clots respond well to other anticoagulant drugs, which is why some people need to take Heparin, especially if they have frequent problems with blood clots or if they have used other similar medications without success. Sometimes Heparin is used originally and after a while an oral anticoagulant medication is taken, during which time the patient slowly stops use of Heparin. Ceasing use of medications like Heparin too quickly can cause blood clots to form, so extreme care must be taken when changing or withdrawing from medications like Heparin. Blood clots can cause death, and can also lead to embolisms, heart attacks and strokes, so it is very important that any potential blood clots be treated quickly. Those who are at risk for blood clots should be evaluated.