heparin + protamine

Heparin + protamine is a combination of two drugs used in clinical settings where rapid reversal of anticoagulation is required. Heparin is an anticoagulant that works by potentiating the activity of antithrombin-III, thereby inhibiting thrombin and factor Xa, which prevents blood clot formation. Protamine is a strongly basic protein that acts as a specific antagonist to heparin; it binds to the acidic heparin molecule, forming a stable inactive complex and neutralizing its anticoagulant effect. This combination is primarily used during or after procedures such as cardiac surgery or dialysis when it becomes necessary to quickly reverse the effects of heparin to prevent excessive bleeding[1][2][3][5]. The administration of protamine following heparin allows for controlled management of coagulation status in patients.

Other names

heparin and protamine titration schemeheparin and protamine fixed-dose scheme