n. one of a group of simple proteins that can be conjugated with nucleic acids to form nucleoproteins. Protamine sulphate is injected as an antidote to heparin overdosage in oral anticoagulant therapy.
Heparin is one of the naturally produced ANTICOAGULANTS with a rapid e?ect, which is thought to act by neutralising thrombin (see COAGULATION). Inactive when taken orally, it is normally given intravenously – it may be given for a few days, combined with an oral anticoagulant such as warfarin, to initiate anticoagulation. Low-dose heparin may be given by subcutaneous injection for longer periods, for the prophylaxis of DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS (DVT) or PULMONARY EMBOLISM in ‘high-risk’ patients, such as those with obesity or a history of thrombosis, or post-operatively. If haemorrhage occurs, withdrawal of heparin is usually su?cient, but protamine sulphate is a rapidly active and speci?c antidote. Prolonged treatment with heparin may cause osteoporosis (see under BONE, DISORDERS OF).... heparin
a group of insulins in which the insulin molecules are combined with *protamine molecules to slow down their rate of absorption from the injection site. The insulin is released steadily from the skin into the bloodstream to stabilize blood sugar over a longer period. Mixtures of isophane and fast-acting insulins are also available (biphasic insulin aspart, biphasic insulin lispro, biphasic isophane insulin).... isophane insulins
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