Anticoagulants — Heparin vs Enoxaparin

Current · V5 (2025) → N4.i Historical · V4 (2023) → Q2.i 5 exam appearances

2025B Q20

Exam question

Describe the following pharmacology of both unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin: (a) indications for use (10% of marks) (b) mechanism of action (30% of marks) (c) monitoring and reversal (10% of marks) (d) important pharmacokinetic differences and considerations when using in the intensive care unit (ICU) (30% of marks) (e) adverse effects (20% of marks).

CICMWrecks answer

Master answer

Master answer coming soon.

Past papers

Exam appearances

5 appearances

Exam	Exact exam wording	Candidate success
2025B Q20	Describe the following pharmacology of both unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin: (a) indications for use (10% of marks) (b) mechanism of action (30% of marks) (c) monitoring and reversal (10% of marks) (d) important pharmacokinetic differences and considerations when using in the intensive care unit (ICU) (30% of marks) (e) adverse effects (20% of marks).	35%
2024A Q20	Outline the important similarities and differences between unfractionated heparin and enoxaparin using the following headings (20% of marks each): (i) Mechanism of action (ii) Pharmacokinetics (iii) Adverse effects (iv) Dosing (v) Monitoring and reversal	27%
2018B Q20	Describe the pharmacology of heparin highlighting important differences between unfractionated and fractionated (low molecular weight) heparin.	71%
2017B Q05	Compare and contrast unfractionated heparin with low molecular weight heparin	68%
2009B Q20	Compare and contrast the pharmacology of heparin and enoxaparin.	89%