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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using heparin ()?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to heparin, or if you have:

• a severe lack of platelets in your blood; or
• uncontrolled bleeding.

To make sure you can safely use heparin, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• an infection of the lining of your heart (also called bacterial endocarditis);
• uncontrolled high blood pressure;
• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, such as hemophilia;
• a stomach or intestinal disorder;
• liver disease; or
• if you are having a menstrual period.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether heparin will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Women over 60 years of age may be more likely to have bleeding episodes while using heparin.

How should I use heparin ()?

Heparin is injected under the skin or into a vein through an IV. You may be shown how to use an IV at home.

Heparin must not be injected into a muscle.

Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles, IV tubing, and other items used to inject the medicine.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

To be sure this medicine is helping your condition and is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. Your stools may also need to be checked for blood. Visit your doctor regularly.

Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

You may be switched from injectable heparin to an oral (taken by mouth) blood thinner. Do not stop using the heparin until your doctor tells you to. You may need to use both the injection and the oral forms of heparin for a short time.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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