Hepariiniin

Hepariiniin is a Finnish term referring to heparin, a glycosaminoglycan that acts as an anticoagulant. In medicine, heparin is primarily used to prevent and treat blood clots, such as those found in deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. It functions by enhancing the activity of antithrombin III, a natural inhibitor of coagulation factors. This interaction significantly slows down the clotting process.

Heparin is typically administered parenterally, meaning it is injected either subcutaneously or intravenously. Its use requires careful monitoring of blood clotting times, such as the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), to ensure therapeutic efficacy and minimize the risk of bleeding complications. The dosage and duration of heparin therapy depend on the specific medical condition being treated and individual patient factors.

While highly effective, heparin can have side effects, most notably bleeding. Another significant, though less common, complication is heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), an immune-mediated condition where the body develops antibodies against heparin, leading to a paradoxical increase in clotting. Due to these potential risks, heparin is a prescription medication administered under medical supervision. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to weigh the benefits against the risks when deciding on heparin therapy.