Heparin is an anticoagulant, also known as a blood thinner, that is used to prevent and treat blood clots caused by certain medical conditions or medical procedures. It works by decreasing the clotting ability of the blood. Heparin is used in the following ways:

• Preventing blood clots: Heparin is used to prevent blood clots from forming in people who have certain medical conditions or who are undergoing certain medical procedures that increase the risk of blood clots. It is also used to prevent blood clots after surgery, during dialysis, during blood transfusions, when collecting blood samples, or when a person is unable to move for a long time.

• Treating blood clots: Heparin is used to treat blood clots that have already formed in the body.

• Preventing pregnancy loss: Heparin is sometimes used alone or in combination with aspirin to prevent pregnancy loss and other problems in pregnant women who have certain medical conditions and who have experienced these problems in their earlier pregnancies.

Heparin can be administered intravenously (into a vein) or subcutaneously (under the skin) . The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the medical condition being treated and the patients response to treatment. Heparin should not be injected into a muscle. It is important to follow the instructions of a healthcare provider when using heparin, and to inform them of any allergies or medical conditions before use.