Heparin Overdose

Overview

Heparin overdose is a condition where there is too much heparin in the blood and the body is unable to inhibit excessive bleeding. Heparin is an anticoagulant and prevents clotting. Overdose of heparin may result in quick life-threatening blood loss conditions.

Signs and Symptoms

Nosebleeds, Coffee ground coloured vomit, Black tarry stools, Blood in stools and vomit, Blood in urine, Easy bruising, Coughing out blood, Unusually longer and heavier periods, Dark and bluish skin at hands and feet, Petechiae

Common Causes

Accidental consumption of heparin more than the prescribed amount, Inaccurate coagulation test, Lack of monitoring, Taking other types of anticoagulant, Hemodialysis

Risk Factors

Accidental consumption of heparin more than the prescribed amount, Inaccurate coagulation test, Lack of monitoring, Taking other types of anticoagulant, Hemodialysis

Investigation Techniques

Physical examination, Full blood count, International Normalized Ratio (INR), Bleeding and clotting time, Liver function test, Renal function test, Urinalysis, Occult stool test, Ultrasound, CT scan

Treatment and Prevention

Discontinue heparin intake immediately, Protamine sulphate, Consume prescribed dose by a doctor, Clinical monitoring on liver and kidney functions