Heparin ointment for external use

Heparin ointment is a combination product that includes three main components: the anticoagulant heparin, as well as auxiliary substances benzyl nicotinate (vasodilator) and benzocaine (analgesic). Each of these components has its own action, but together they complement each other. The ointment belongs to the group of direct anticoagulants for local (external) use.

Heparin has an anti-edematous effect and prevents the development of blood clots, benzyl nicotinate promotes vasodilation, and benzocaine effectively relieves pain, easing the patient's condition. This ointment has proven itself in the treatment of hemorrhoids, phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of superficial veins. It helps relieve swelling, eliminating the manifestation of hematomas and bruises, helps with bruises and injuries. The areas of application of heparin ointment are quite extensive, and this has been proven by medical practice. Some women have experienced the beneficial effect of the ointment, trying to get rid of wrinkles. However, self-administration of such a remedy is strictly prohibited. This is due to some contraindications and side effects of the ointment, which are prescribed in the instructions. The drug is used after diagnosis as prescribed by a doctor and under his strict supervision.

Heparin ointment, according to many doctors, is considered "morally obsolete" due to the emergence of other similar drugs. Despite this, the ointment remains in demand in medicine and is successfully used by many patients. If the effect is weak, it is replaced by more effective drugs.

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Indications heparin ointment

Heparin ointment is initially prescribed to patients for the treatment of phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of superficial veins. Such pathology often occurs against the background of infusions and injections (intravenous and subcutaneous administration of various drugs), as a result of which hematomas may occur due to mechanical damage to the veins.

Indications for the use of heparin ointment are associated with the elimination of bruises and swelling, the treatment of varicose veins, and the treatment of complications caused by this disease.

Ointment containing heparin has proven its high efficiency in the treatment of hemorrhoids - thrombosis of hemorrhoidal veins (including inflammation of hemorrhoids in women in the postpartum period), lymphangitis, trophic ulcers of the leg, household bruises, sports injuries of muscle tissue, joints and tendons. In addition, heparin ointment is prescribed for the treatment of superficial mastitis, elephantiasis, subcutaneous and extensive hematomas, localized infiltrates.

The effective effect of heparin ointment on inflamed skin with bruises is proven by patient reviews, who note that under the influence of this product, hemorrhages disappear much faster and pain sensations decrease. This is explained by the complex action of the ointment: anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, local anesthetic and antithrombotic.

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Release form

Heparin ointment with a pronounced anticoagulant and antithrombotic effect is used in medical practice as a means for external application to the skin, most often for thrombophlebitis of the extremities, edema and thrombosis of hemorrhoidal veins, as well as for bruises and injuries that are not characterized by a violation of the integrity of the skin.

The release form of this drug, like many other ointments, is convenient, compact aluminum tubes in cardboard packages. There are several ointment options by volume - 10, 20, 25, 30 and 50 grams, which allows you to buy the necessary dosage of ointment depending on the situation and the severity of the disease. In our pharmacies, you can most often find heparin ointment, produced in tubes of 10 and 25 g from the pharmaceutical company "Nizhpharm". A white pack contains one tube of ointment, as well as instructions for use of the drug.

The medical instructions for heparin ointment indicate that 100 grams of the product contain 10,000 U of sodium heparin, 0.8 mg of benzonicotinic acid (benzyl nicotinate) and 40 mg of benzocaine (anesthetic). The auxiliary substances used are distilled glycerin, medical petroleum jelly, as well as peach oil, cosmetic stearin and other components.

Pharmacodynamics

Heparin ointment is quickly absorbed when applied to inflamed skin, and after a short period of time has a pronounced effect as an anticoagulant with a complex effect.

Pharmacodynamics, i.e. the mechanism of action on the human body and the pharmacological effect of heparin ointment, is as follows. The components included in the product are absorbed through the skin, releasing sodium heparin. This substance reduces the aggregation (sticking together) of platelets and has a blocking effect on the synthesis of thrombin. In addition, heparin helps to increase the fibrinolytic (restorative) properties of blood and suppress the action of the enzyme hyaluronidase.

Benzyl nicotinate dilates small superficial vessels. As a result of this process, sodium heparin is actively absorbed into damaged tissues.

Benzocaine, which acts as an anesthetic and is part of the ointment, reduces pain and combats the negative effects of bruises, injuries or swelling. In combination, heparin ointment has anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous and antithrombotic effects.

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Pharmacokinetics

Heparin ointment is visually a thick mass of white color with a yellowish tint and a jelly-like consistency without a pronounced odor. This medicine allows not only to reduce inflammation, but also to prevent blood clotting, eliminate pain. The ointment is quickly absorbed into the skin and promotes the effective action of the components included in its composition.

Pharmacokinetics as a section of pharmacology provides an assessment of the dynamics of a drug's presence in the body, as well as its distribution in tissues, transformation and excretion.

Approximately 3 hours after application of the ointment, Cmax of heparin in the blood plasma is observed. It should be noted that heparin, due to its significant molecular weight, poorly penetrates the wall of the placenta and is practically not excreted with maternal breast milk. Therefore, in case of inflammation of veins or hemorrhoids in pregnant women and nursing mothers, it is permissible to prescribe heparin ointment, but only by the attending physician. The half-life of the active substance from plasma is from 30 to 60 minutes. It is important to emphasize that heparin cannot be used to treat purulent wounds.

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Dosing and administration

Heparin ointment is intended exclusively for local, external use. Before treatment, it is necessary to read the instructions for this drug, which clearly states that this product is prohibited for use on open wounds and areas with damaged skin (wounds) and purulent processes.

The method of application and dosage of heparin ointment are also prescribed in the medical instructions. The product should be applied to the affected areas in a thin layer, daily, at least 2-3 times a day, for 3-7 days (and sometimes longer - up to 14 days) until the signs of inflammation disappear. Rub the ointment in carefully, having previously applied it to the affected area of the skin in a small amount.

When treating hemorrhoids, it is recommended to apply the ointment to a tampon, which is then inserted into the anus. You can also use a calico bandage or pad, fixing it on the affected area. The exact dosage of heparin ointment and the duration of treatment is determined by the attending physician. Despite the fact that heparin ointment is sold in pharmacies without a prescription, self-medication is unacceptable. It is imperative to agree on the use of the drug and the treatment regimen with your doctor.

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Use heparin ointment during pregnancy

Heparin ointment has found wide application in medicine as a pharmaceutical preparation, the action of which is aimed at reducing blood clotting and preventing thrombus formation. The active substance heparin belongs to the group of direct-acting anticoagulants, capable of reducing the tendency of blood cells to stick together and preventing thrombus formation.

The use of heparin ointment during pregnancy is associated with inflammation or occlusion of veins in various injuries and pathologies accompanied by hemorrhages. Treatment with ointment should be prescribed by a doctor, most often this concerns cases of thrombosis and thrombophlebitis, as well as hemorrhoids, against which thrombosis of hemorrhoidal veins develops. The ointment is applied to the skin in a thin layer up to 3 times a day, with the exception of situations associated with purulent wounds. The duration of treatment is approximately 2 weeks. For hemorrhoids in pregnant women, tampons soaked in heparin ointment are used daily. Such treatment is carried out for 2 weeks until the symptoms disappear.

Heparin ointment is prohibited for pregnant women with strong sensitivity of the body to the components contained, with ulcers and tissue necrosis located in the area of altered blood vessels. In addition, it is necessary to note such a factor as reduced blood clotting due to a decrease in the number of platelets, in which case the use of ointment is strictly prohibited. Side effects caused by the action of heparin ointment most often manifest themselves in the form of skin allergic reactions.

Contraindications

Heparin ointment has a number of contraindications that must be taken into account when prescribing treatment. First of all, this concerns open, purulent or bleeding wounds, as well as necrotic ulcers in the area of thrombophlebitis. In such cases, it is strictly forbidden to use heparin ointment. Since the action of heparin is aimed at suppressing thrombus formation, it is unacceptable to use the ointment if the number of platelets decreases and there are disorders of the blood clotting process.

Other contraindications to the use of heparin ointment:

• childhood;
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
• hemorrhagic diathesis;
• hemophilia;
• thrombocytopenia;
• thrombocytopenic purpura;
• genetic predisposition to bleeding;
• deep vein thrombosis;
• pregnancy and lactation period (except in certain cases).

It is important to consider that heparin is a strong allergen, so using the ointment can provoke allergic reactions accompanied by unpleasant itching and burning. To avoid such a side effect, you should first apply a small amount of ointment to the skin area and observe the body's reaction to the drug.

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Side effects heparin ointment

Heparin ointment is generally well tolerated by the body, without causing any serious problems or unpleasant symptoms. However, there are a number of side effects that should be taken into account before using this medication.

Side effects of heparin ointment may be related to the body's normal reaction, which manifests itself in the form of a slight burning sensation, swelling or itching in the places where the ointment is applied. Most often, this side effect passes quickly, so the patient does not need to worry about it again.

Benzocaine, one of the components of heparin ointment, can provoke an allergic reaction. Therefore, the ointment is contraindicated for patients with varicose veins who are also allergic to local anesthetics.

If the side effects (itching, skin rashes, swelling) are quite severe and are observed over a long period of time, the doctor prescribes another drug to the patient, which has a more gentle effect. It is important to note that due to the low absorption of heparin ointment, an overdose of this drug is excluded.

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Overdose

Heparin ointment should be used as prescribed by a doctor in the dosages he prescribes. This point is very important, since self-medication and the use of ointment in large quantities can cause unpleasant, and in some situations, serious complications.

Overdose of heparin ointment, which consists of a violation of the drug dose, can lead to bleeding. Most often, this is due to individual hypersensitivity to heparin, which is a strong anticoagulant and can provoke internal bleeding. In this case, it is necessary to provide emergency assistance, after which the doctor will decide whether to continue or stop treatment. In severe situations, surgery cannot be avoided.

Self-medication is a direct path to violating the treatment regimen and incorrect dosage, which can result in problems arising from the use of heparin ointment, primarily in the form of allergic reactions. Skin rashes, severe itching and burning may appear. In addition, when rubbing in a large amount of ointment, hyperemia (increased blood flow) of the skin may occur.

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Interactions with other drugs

Heparin ointment can be used simultaneously with other anticoagulant drugs. In this case, it is very important to strictly follow the instructions of the attending physician and accurately take the prescribed dosages to avoid worsening the condition in the form of muscle hemorrhages and the development of even more severe consequences.

Interactions with other drugs, in particular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antiplatelet agents and NSAIDs, enhance the effect of heparin ointment. Conversely, antihistamines, tetracyclines, hydrocortisone, salicylic acid products and nicotine significantly weaken its effect.

The therapy is supplemented by moderate physical activity, as well as the use of elastic bandages and compression hosiery. The anticoagulant effect of heparin is reduced when interacting with thyroxine, digitalis preparations and ergot alkaloids. It is not recommended to drink alcohol during the course of treatment. In any case, before starting therapy, it is important to tell your doctor about other medications you are taking to avoid possible complications. The doctor will prescribe the optimal treatment regimen and advise on issues related to taking heparin ointment and its compatibility with other drugs.

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Storage conditions

Heparin ointment should be stored, like any other ointment, in a dry, cool and sun-protected place, at a temperature not exceeding 15-20 ͦС. These are the main requirements for this drug, which are set out in the medical instructions. Failure to comply with the storage rules will lead to a change in the physicochemical properties of the ointment.

Storage conditions must be observed, first of all, so that the heparin ointment does not spoil. In principle, all ointments are recommended to be stored in the original packaging from the manufacturer. This will ensure their stability and effective action throughout the specified shelf life. Temperature, light, humidity - all these factors must be taken into account when storing heparin ointment at home.

After using the ointment, the cap must be screwed tightly. It is important to ensure that the product does not fall into the hands of a child. Therefore, it is recommended to store all medications in a closed cabinet on the top shelf. Ointments on emulsion bases are considered less stable, and ointments prepared on fat-like and mineral bases are more stable.

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Shelf life

Heparin ointment has a set shelf life of 3 years, and this information is indicated in the instructions for the drug. After this period, the ointment must be disposed of. Expired drugs cannot be used, since their properties are violated and in some cases can cause unforeseen consequences. In cases with ointments, these can be allergic reactions.

The expiration date and storage conditions of any ointment must be strictly observed. For example, temperature fluctuations, exposure to light and moisture have an adverse effect on the quality of ointments. Emulsion ointments are prone to delamination at low or very high temperatures. Suspension ointments or ointments prepared on a gel base dry out quickly. In expired ointments, there is a decrease in the activity of medicinal substances, as well as an increase in microbial contamination.

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