Core pharmacology

Class Group

Anticoagulant Reversal Agents

Legacy Cicm Level

Level 3

Introduction

Basic cationic protein

Presentation

1mg=100U heparin

Mechanism of action

Heparin is acidic anionic protein. Combines with heparin to form a stable, inactive salt cleared by RES.
Not able to completely reverse LMWH

Adverse Effects Toxicity

1. Pulmonary Hypertension
- Complement activation and TxA2 release- only heparin-protamine complex elicits this
2. Myocardial depression, decreased SVR (Histamine release)
3. Weakly anticoagulant in absence of heparin
4. Allergic reaction

Absorption

IV only

Volume of distribution

Vd 5L

Metabolism

Metabolism unclear

Half-life

T1/2= 7min