Unfractionated Heparin for Deep Vein Thrombosis
Why It Is Used
Unfractionated heparin is typically only used in the hospital. It is used to prevent and initially treat a Reference deep vein thrombosis Opens New Window.Reference 1
Unfractionated heparin (UH) is given through a vein (intravenously, or IV) or injected under the skin.
When used for prevention, heparin might be injected a few hours before surgery. It might be given for a few days after surgery.
When used for treatment, heparin might be given through an IV or an injection.
After getting unfractionated heparin in the hospital, you will likely start taking other types of anticoagulants at home, such as low-molecular-weight heparin and warfarin.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: December 28, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Jeffrey S. Ginsberg, MD - Hematology |
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