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What is Heparin? What is the main use and composition? Are there any contraindications to the use of the agent? Heparin is a medicinal product in the form of a gel. The active substance of the product is heparin sodium, which has anti-inflammatory properties as well as anticoagulant and anti-edema properties.
Heparin is an over-the-counter medicinal product. The agent is in the form of a gel for topical application. The active substance of Heparin is heparin sodium, which has many properties, including anti-edema, anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties. In what situations can the gel be applied? Are there any contraindications to the use of the product?
Heparin – application
Heparin is a gel formulation for topical use. The active substance of the product is heparin sodium, and the excipients are:
- propylene glycol
- carbomer 5984
- propyl parahydroxybenzoate
- methyl parahydroxybenzoate
- sodium hydroxide 30%
- Polysorbate 20
- Purified Water
- fragrances: rose oil
The product is used for swelling, subcutaneous hematomas, bruises, in the course of venous disease, for example in varicose veins of the lower limbs, as an adjunct to treatment. The dosage and its frequency of the therapeutic agent should be agreed with the attending physician, who will adjust the dose to the type of disease and the intensity of symptoms. It is also important to read the recommended doses on the product leaflet. The drug is intended only for external use, on the affected area.
The optimal dosage is 2 or 3 times a day, Heparin should be spread in a thin layer. Wash hands thoroughly after application.
Heparin – contraindications
As with other medications, Heparin cannot be used by everyone. The main contraindication to the use of the drug is allergy or hypersensitivity to any component of the drug. Heparin cannot be used on places with open, oozing wounds, scratches, skin inflammation, skin changes of unknown origin.
It is very important to be especially careful with people who have been diagnosed with a hemorrhagic diathesis. With long-term use, the agent may cause side effects such as itching, redness, burning, rash and any other skin lesions. That is why it is so important to monitor the condition of the skin throughout the treatment. Since Heparin contains propyl parahydroxybenzoate and methyl parahydroxybenzoate in its composition, prolonged use may lead to skin allergic reactions, most often these are delayed reactions.
Heparin – interactions with other drugs
It is imperative to inform the doctor about the use of other drugs, even those without a prescription. Heparin may interact with other anticoagulants, as the anticoagulant effect may be enhanced when the drug is used on larger surfaces. Heparin does not cross the placenta, but special care should be taken in the event of pregnancy, and should only be used when necessary. Heparin cannot be used in children. There are no confirmed data on the negative impact of the preparation on the ability to drive a vehicle or operate larger machines and devices. Any disturbing changes and symptoms must be reported to a specialist.