Which antidote is used to reverse heparin?

Study for the CJE Open Check Test. Practice with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question offers hints and explanations. Prepare for exam success!

Multiple Choice

Which antidote is used to reverse heparin?

Explanation:
Protamine sulfate reverses heparin by binding to heparin and forming a stable, inactive complex, which quickly neutralizes heparin’s anticoagulant effect. Heparin works by enhancing antithrombin III, so when rapid reversal is needed—such as in excessive bleeding or before emergent surgery—protamine provides a direct, rapid counteraction. Other agents target different drugs: vitamin K reverses warfarin by restoring vitamin K–dependent clotting factors, flumazenil reverses benzodiazepines, and naloxone reverses opioids.

Protamine sulfate reverses heparin by binding to heparin and forming a stable, inactive complex, which quickly neutralizes heparin’s anticoagulant effect. Heparin works by enhancing antithrombin III, so when rapid reversal is needed—such as in excessive bleeding or before emergent surgery—protamine provides a direct, rapid counteraction.

Other agents target different drugs: vitamin K reverses warfarin by restoring vitamin K–dependent clotting factors, flumazenil reverses benzodiazepines, and naloxone reverses opioids.

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