Unfractionated heparin
Background
- Binds to and activates antithrombin which in turns inactivates factor Xa and thrombin
- Half-life is 30-150min
- Must give IV (not subq) for acute thromboembolic disease
- Safe in pregnancy
- Unpredictable anticoagulation effect
- Must monitor w/ PTT; therapeutic range is 1.5-2.5x normal value
Treatment
Source
Tintinalli