Heparin (unfractionated)
Used when rapid reversal may be needed or kidney function is poor. IV bolus and infusion adjusted to APTT.
On this page
Dose
| Indication | Dose |
|---|---|
| VTE treatment | 80 units/kg IV bolus (or 5,000 units), then 18 units/kg/hour, adjusted to APTT ratio 1.5–2.5 |
| Prophylaxis | 5,000 units SC every 8–12 hours |
Cautions
- Monitor APTT and platelets (heparin-induced thrombocytopenia).
- Reverse with protamine.
Frequently asked questions
Why use unfractionated heparin instead of enoxaparin?
When rapid reversal may be needed (surgery, bleeding risk) or in severe kidney failure.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.
For FCPS Part 1
Revising for FCPS Part 1? Heparin is covered in our textbook chapter Anticoagulants and antiplatelets, with practice MCQs.