98001-69-5

Antidote (to heparin).

Protamine sulfate has an anticoagulanteffect, but if used in the proper amount, it counteractsthe action of heparin and is used as an antidote for thelatter in cases of overdosage. It is administered intravenouslyin a dose that depends on the circumstances.

Alkaline protamine binds to negatively charged heparin. Use of protamine during cardiovascular surgery sometime triggers anaphylactic reactions.

Protamine is used in all species for the treatment of heparin overdosage when significant bleeding occurs. While protamine will neutralize the anti-thrombin effects of low molecular weight heparins (e.g., dalteparin or enoxaparin), it does not completely inhibit their anti-Xa activity. Laboratory animal studies however, shows it does improve microvascular bleeding associated with LMWH overdoses. Protamine has been suggested for use for Bracken Fern toxicity in ruminants (see Doses).