heparin vs warfarin

[coconut lime]

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i understand the theoretical differences between the 2, but can someone explain how the clinical applications of each one differ? thanks!

 

[idq1i]

i understand the theoretical differences between the 2, but can someone explain how the clinical applications of each one differ? thanks!

heparin vs. warfarin

IV only vs Oral

Quick action vs. Delayed action

 

[coconut lime]

thank you.

 

[BassDominator]

All depends on why you need anticoagulation....

Some examples:
1. DVT treatment: start with heparin until therapeudic PTT, then add coumadin until therapeudic INR, then send patient home on oral coumadin (remember you need heparin to start coumadin because protein C/S get blocked first and they are anticoagulants!)
2. Cardiopulmonary bypass surgery: you want heparin because it starts acting fast and can be reversed quickly with protamine. you don't want the patient clotting on the machine, but you also don't want him/her bleeding when they come off bypass