What is the antidote for heparin therapy?

What is the antidote for heparin therapy?

• A. Vitamin K
• B. Protamine sulfate
• C. Fresh frozen plasma
• D. Calcium gluconate

Answer: (B)

Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin therapy. Heparin works by enhancing antithrombin III to inhibit thrombin and factor Xa, which prolongs clotting times. Protamine sulfate is a positively charged protein that binds to heparin, forming a stable complex and neutralizing its anticoagulant effect, providing rapid reversal—especially for unfractionated heparin. It’s given by slow IV administration, with dosing typically around 1 mg of protamine per 100 units of heparin given (adjusted if heparin is still being infused). Monitor closely for adverse effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, or allergic reactions, and avoid rapid administration. For low molecular weight heparin, reversal with protamine is incomplete, so reversal planning may differ. Vitamin K reverses warfarin, not heparin; fresh frozen plasma and calcium gluconate are not standard antidotes for heparin reversal.

Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin therapy. Heparin works by enhancing antithrombin III to inhibit thrombin and factor Xa, which prolongs clotting times. Protamine sulfate is a positively charged protein that binds to heparin, forming a stable complex and neutralizing its anticoagulant effect, providing rapid reversal—especially for unfractionated heparin. It’s given by slow IV administration, with dosing typically around 1 mg of protamine per 100 units of heparin given (adjusted if heparin is still being infused). Monitor closely for adverse effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, or allergic reactions, and avoid rapid administration. For low molecular weight heparin, reversal with protamine is incomplete, so reversal planning may differ. Vitamin K reverses warfarin, not heparin; fresh frozen plasma and calcium gluconate are not standard antidotes for heparin reversal.