About protamine sulfate
Heparin reversal agent
Used for
- Reverses the anticoagulant effects of heparin, especially during surgery or after overdose.
- May reverse some low-molecular-weight heparin effects, but less completely.
Usual adult dose
For heparin reversal, about 1 mg per 100 units of heparin recently given; dose is adjusted for time elapsed and capped at 50 mg.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-determined dosing based on heparin exposure and elapsed time; given slowly by intravenous injection.
Common side effects
- Low blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
- Flushing or shortness of breath
- Severe allergic reactions
Important warnings
- Must be given slowly by a healthcare professional; rapid injection can cause severe reactions.
- Can cause serious low blood pressure, lung reactions, or anaphylaxis.
- Excess protamine can impair blood clotting and increase bleeding.
- Risk of severe reactions may be higher after prior exposure or with fish allergy.
Pregnancy
Used when clinically necessary; pregnancy-specific safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; use depends on clinical need.
Interactions
- Heparin: protamine neutralizes its anticoagulant effect.
- Low-molecular-weight heparins: reversal may be incomplete.
- Medicines that affect blood clotting may alter bleeding risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.