ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

A6 DVERSE REACTIONS. The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:Hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions in Infants Due to Benzyl Alcohol Preservative [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]Thrombocytopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]Heparin Resistance [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]6.1 Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of heparin sodium. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish causal relationship to drug exposure.Hemorrhage is the chief complication that may result from heparin therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Gastrointestinal or urinary tract bleeding during anticoagulant therapy may indicate the presence of an underlying occult lesion. Bleeding can occur at any site but certain specific hemorrhagic complications may be difficult to detect:Adrenal hemorrhage, with resultant acute adrenal insufficiency, has occurred with heparin therapy, including fatal cases.Ovarian (corpus luteum) hemorrhage developed in number of women of reproductive age receiving short- or long-term heparin therapy.Retroperitoneal hemorrhage. HIT and HITT, including delayed onset cases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].Local Irritation Local irritation, erythema, mild pain, hematoma or ulceration may follow deep subcutaneous (intrafat) injection of heparin sodium. Because these complications are much more common after intramuscular use, the intramuscular route is not recommended.Histamine-like reactions Such reactions have been observed at the site of injections. Necrosis of the skin has been reported at the site of subcutaneous injection of heparin, occasionally requiring skin grafting [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].Hypersensitivity Generalized hypersensitivity reactions have been reported, with chills, fever and urticaria as the most usual manifestations, and asthma, rhinitis, lacrimation, headache, nausea and vomiting, and anaphylactoid reactions, including shock, occurring less frequently. Itching and burning, especially on the plantar side of the feet, may occur. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].Elevations of aminotransferases Significant elevations of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels have occurred in patients who have received heparin [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].Miscellaneous Osteoporosis following long-term administration of high doses of heparin, cutaneous necrosis after systemic administration, suppression of aldosterone synthesis, delayed transient alopecia, priapism, and rebound hyperlipemia on discontinuation of heparin sodium have also been reported.. Hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. Risk of Serious Adverse Reactions in Infants Due to Benzyl Alcohol Preservative [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Thrombocytopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. Heparin Resistance [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]. Hemorrhage is the chief complication that may result from heparin therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Gastrointestinal or urinary tract bleeding during anticoagulant therapy may indicate the presence of an underlying occult lesion. Bleeding can occur at any site but certain specific hemorrhagic complications may be difficult to detect:Adrenal hemorrhage, with resultant acute adrenal insufficiency, has occurred with heparin therapy, including fatal cases.Ovarian (corpus luteum) hemorrhage developed in number of women of reproductive age receiving short- or long-term heparin therapy.Retroperitoneal hemorrhage. Adrenal hemorrhage, with resultant acute adrenal insufficiency, has occurred with heparin therapy, including fatal cases.. Ovarian (corpus luteum) hemorrhage developed in number of women of reproductive age receiving short- or long-term heparin therapy.. Retroperitoneal hemorrhage.. HIT and HITT, including delayed onset cases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].. Local Irritation Local irritation, erythema, mild pain, hematoma or ulceration may follow deep subcutaneous (intrafat) injection of heparin sodium. Because these complications are much more common after intramuscular use, the intramuscular route is not recommended.. Histamine-like reactions Such reactions have been observed at the site of injections. Necrosis of the skin has been reported at the site of subcutaneous injection of heparin, occasionally requiring skin grafting [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].. Hypersensitivity Generalized hypersensitivity reactions have been reported, with chills, fever and urticaria as the most usual manifestations, and asthma, rhinitis, lacrimation, headache, nausea and vomiting, and anaphylactoid reactions, including shock, occurring less frequently. Itching and burning, especially on the plantar side of the feet, may occur. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].. Elevations of aminotransferases Significant elevations of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels have occurred in patients who have received heparin [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].. Miscellaneous Osteoporosis following long-term administration of high doses of heparin, cutaneous necrosis after systemic administration, suppression of aldosterone synthesis, delayed transient alopecia, priapism, and rebound hyperlipemia on discontinuation of heparin sodium have also been reported.. Most common adverse reactions are hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, HIT and HITTS, injection site irritation, general hypersensitivity reactions, and elevations of aminotransferase levels. (6.1)To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Sagent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-866-625-1618 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. 12.1 Mechanism of ActionHeparin interacts with the naturally occurring plasma protein, Antithrombin III, to induce conformational change, which markedly enhances the serine protease activity of Antithrombin III, thereby inhibiting the activated coagulation factors involved in the clotting sequence, particularly Xa and IIa. Small amounts of heparin inhibit Factor Xa, and larger amounts inhibit thrombin (Factor IIa). Heparin also prevents the formation of stable fibrin clot by inhibiting the activation of the fibrin stabilizing factor. Heparin does not have fibrinolytic activity; therefore, it will not lyse existing clots.12.2 PharmacodynamicsVarious times (activated clotting time, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, whole blood clotting time) are prolonged by full therapeutic doses of heparin; in most cases, they are not measurably affected by low doses of heparin. The bleeding time is usually unaffected by heparin.12.3 Pharmacokinetics AbsorptionHeparin is not absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and therefore administered via parenteral route. Peak plasma concentration and the onset of action are achieved immediately after intravenous administration.DistributionHeparin is highly bound to antithrombin, fibrinogens, globulins, serum proteases and lipoproteins. The volume of distribution is 0.07 L/kg.EliminationMetabolismHeparin does not undergo enzymatic degradation.ExcretionHeparin is mainly cleared from the circulation by liver and reticuloendothelial cells mediated uptake into extravascular space. Heparin undergoes biphasic clearance, a) rapid saturable clearance (zero order process due to binding to proteins, endothelial cells and macrophage) and b) slower first order elimination. The plasma half-life is dose-dependent and it ranges from 0.5 to h.Specific PopulationsGeriatric patientsPatients over 60 years of age, following similar doses of heparin, may have higher plasma levels of heparin and longer activated partial thromboplastin times (APTTs) compared with patients under 60 years of age [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS. The use of heparin sodium is contraindicated in patients with the following conditions:History of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]Known hypersensitivity to heparin or pork products (e.g., anaphylactoid reactions) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]In whom suitable blood coagulation tests, e.g., the whole blood clotting time, partial thromboplastin time, etc., cannot be performed at appropriate intervals (this contraindication refers to full-dose heparin; there is usually no need to monitor coagulation parameters in patients receiving low-dose heparin)An uncontrolled active bleeding state [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)], except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation. History of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. Known hypersensitivity to heparin or pork products (e.g., anaphylactoid reactions) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. In whom suitable blood coagulation tests, e.g., the whole blood clotting time, partial thromboplastin time, etc., cannot be performed at appropriate intervals (this contraindication refers to full-dose heparin; there is usually no need to monitor coagulation parameters in patients receiving low-dose heparin). An uncontrolled active bleeding state [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)], except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Severe thrombocytopenia (4)When suitable blood coagulation tests, e.g., the whole blood clotting time, partial thromboplastin time, etc., cannot be performed at appropriate intervals (4)An uncontrolled active bleeding state, except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation (4). Severe thrombocytopenia (4). When suitable blood coagulation tests, e.g., the whole blood clotting time, partial thromboplastin time, etc., cannot be performed at appropriate intervals (4). An uncontrolled active bleeding state, except when this is due to disseminated intravascular coagulation (4).

DESCRIPTION SECTION.

11 DESCRIPTION. Heparin is heterogeneous group of straight-chain anionic mucopolysaccharides, called glycosaminoglycans, possessing anticoagulant properties. It is composed of polymers of alternating derivations of -D-glucosamido (N-sulfated, O-sulfated, or N-acetylated) and O-sulfated uronic acid (-L-iduronic acid or -D-glucuronic acid).Structure of heparin sodium (representative subunits):Heparin Sodium Injection, USP is sterile solution of heparin sodium derived from porcine intestinal mucosa, standardized for anticoagulant activity. It is to be administered by intravenous or deep subcutaneous routes. The potency is determined by biological assay using USP reference standard based on units of heparin activity per milligram.Heparin Sodium Injection, USP preserved with Benzyl Alcohol is available in the following concentrations per mL:Heparin Sodium Sodium Chloride Benzyl Alcohol1,000 USP units 8.6 mg 10.42 mg5,000 USP units mg 10.42 mg10,000 USP units mg 10.42 mgpH 5.0 to 7.5; sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid added, if needed, for pH adjustment.. Formula1.jpg.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. 2.1 Preparation for AdministrationConfirm the choice of the correct heparin sodium injection vial to ensure that the mL vial is not confused with catheter lock flush vial or other mL vial of incorrect strength [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Confirm the selection of the correct formulation and strength prior to administration of the drug.When heparin is added to an infusion solution for continuous intravenous administration, invert the container repeatedly to ensure adequate mixing and prevent pooling of the heparin in the solution.Inspect parenteral drug products visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Use only if solution is clear and the seal is intact. Do not use if solution is discolored or contains precipitate.Administer heparin sodium injection by intermittent intravenous injection, intravenous infusion, or deep subcutaneous (intrafat, i.e., above the iliac crest or abdominal fat layer) injection. Do not administer heparin sodium injection by intramuscular injection because of the risk of hematoma at the injection site [see Adverse Reactions (6)].2.2 Laboratory Monitoring for Efficacy and SafetyAdjust the dosage of heparin sodium injection according to the patients coagulation test results. Dosage is considered adequate when the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is 1.5 to times normal or when the whole blood clotting time is elevated approximately 2.5 to times the control value. When initiating treatment with heparin sodium injection by continuous intravenous infusion, determine the coagulation status (aPTT, INR, platelet count) at baseline and continue to follow aPTT approximately every hours and then at appropriate intervals thereafter. When the drug is administered intermittently by intravenous injection, perform coagulation tests before each injection during the initiation of treatment and at appropriate intervals thereafter. After deep subcutaneous (intrafat) injections, tests for adequacy of dosage are best performed on samples drawn to hours after the injection.Periodic platelet counts and hematocrits are recommended during the entire course of heparin therapy, regardless of the route of administration.2.3 Therapeutic Anticoagulant Effect with Full-Dose HeparinThe dosing recommendations in TABLE are based on clinical experience. Although dosages must be adjusted for the individual patient according to the results of suitable laboratory tests, the following dosage schedules may be used as guidelines:Table 1: Recommended Adult Full-Dose Heparin Regimens for Therapeutic Anticoagulant EffectMETHOD OF ADMINISTRATIONFREQUENCYRECOMMENDED DOSE[based on 150 lb (68 kg) patient]Deep Subcutaneous (Intrafat) InjectionA different site should be used for each injection to prevent the development of massive hematoma Initial Dose5,000 units by intravenous injection, followed by 10,000 to 20,000 units of concentrated solution, subcutaneouslyEvery hoursorEvery 12 hours8,000 to 10,000 units of concentrated solution15,000 to 20,000 units of concentrated solutionIntermittent Intravenous InjectionInitial dose10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USPEvery to hours5,000 to 10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USPIntravenous InfusionInitial dose5,000 units by intravenous injectionContinuous20,000 to 40,000 units/24 hours in 1,000 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (or in any compatible solution) for infusion2.4 Pediatric UseDo not use this product in neonates and infants. Use preservative-free heparin sodium injection in neonates and infants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].There are no adequate and well controlled studies on heparin use in pediatric patients. Pediatric dosing recommendations are based on clinical experience. In general, the following dosage schedule may be used as guideline in pediatric patients:Initial Dose 75 to 100 units/kg (IV bolus over 10 minutes) Infants: 25 to 30 units/kg/hour Infants 2 months have the highest requirements (average 28 units/kg/hour)Maintenance Dose Children 1 year of age: 18 to 20 units/kg/hour Older children may require less heparin, similar to weight-adjusted adult dosageMonitoring Adjust heparin to maintain APTT of 60 to 85 seconds, assuming this reflects an anti-Factor Xa level of 0.35 to 0.702.5 Cardiovascular SurgeryPatients undergoing total body perfusion for open-heart surgery should receive an initial dose of not less than 150 units of heparin sodium per kilogram of body weight. Frequently, dose of 300 units per kilogram is used for procedures estimated to last less than 60 minutes, or 400 units per kilogram for those estimated to last longer than 60 minutes.2.6 Low-Dose Prophylaxis of Postoperative ThromboembolismThe most widely used dosage has been 5,000 units hours before surgery and 5,000 units every to 12 hours thereafter for days or until the patient is fully ambulatory, whichever is longer. Administer the heparin by deep subcutaneous (intrafat, i.e., above the iliac crest or abdominal fat layer, arm, or thigh) injection with fine (25 to 26-gauge) needle to minimize tissue trauma.2.7 Blood TransfusionAdd 450 to 600 USP units of heparin sodium per 100 mL of whole blood to prevent coagulation. Usually, 7,500 USP units of heparin sodium are added to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (or 75,000 USP units per 1,000 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP) and mixed; from this sterile solution, to mL are added per 100 mL of whole blood.2.8 Converting to WarfarinTo ensure continuous anticoagulation when converting from heparin sodium injection to warfarin, continue full heparin therapy for several days until the INR (prothrombin time) has reached stable therapeutic range. Heparin therapy may then be discontinued without tapering [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].2.9 Converting to Oral Anticoagulants other than WarfarinFor patients currently receiving intravenous heparin, stop intravenous infusion of heparin sodium immediately after administering the first dose of oral anticoagulant; or for intermittent intravenous administration of heparin sodium, start oral anticoagulant to hours before the time that the next dose of heparin was to have been administered.2.10 Extracorporeal DialysisFollow equipment manufacturers operating directions carefully. dose of 25 to 30 units/kg followed by an infusion rate of 1,500 to 2,000 units/hour is suggested based on pharmacodynamic data if specific manufacturers recommendations are not available.. Recommended Adult Dosages:Therapeutic Anticoagulant Effect with Full-Dose Heparin Sodium Injection (2.3)Deep Subcutaneous (Intrafat) InjectionUse different site for each injectionInitial Dose5,000 units by intravenous injection, followed by 10,000 to 20,000 units of concentrated solution, subcutaneouslyEvery hoursOrEvery 12 hours8,000 to 10,000 units of concentrated solution15,000 to 20,000 units of concentrated solutionIntermittent Intravenous InjectionInitial dose10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USPEvery to hours5,000 to 10,000 units, either undiluted or in 50 to 100 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USPIntravenous InfusionInitial dose5,000 units by intravenous injectionContinuous20,000 to 40,000 units/24 hours in 1,000 mL of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (or in any compatible solution) for infusionBased on 150 lb (68 kg) patient. Adjust dose based on laboratory monitoring.. Therapeutic Anticoagulant Effect with Full-Dose Heparin Sodium Injection (2.3).

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. 7.1 Oral AnticoagulantsHeparin sodium may prolong the one-stage prothrombin time. Therefore, when heparin sodium is given with dicumarol or warfarin sodium, period of at least hours after the last intravenous dose or 24 hours after the last subcutaneous dose should elapse before blood is drawn, if valid prothrombin time is to be obtained.7.2 Platelet InhibitorsDrugs such as NSAIDS (including salicylic acid, ibuprofen, indomethacin, and celecoxib), dextran, phenylbutazone, thienopyridines, dipyridamole, hydroxychloroquine, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa antagonists (including abciximab, eptifibatide, and tirofiban), and others that interfere with platelet-aggregation reactions (the main hemostatic defense of heparinized patients) may induce bleeding and should be used with caution in patients receiving heparin sodium. To reduce the risk of bleeding, reduction in the dose of antiplatelet agent or heparin is recommended.7.3 Other InteractionsDigitalis, tetracyclines, nicotine or antihistamines may partially counteract the anticoagulant action of heparin sodium. Intravenous nitroglycerin administered to heparinized patients may result in decrease of the partial thromboplastin time with subsequent rebound effect upon discontinuation of nitroglycerin. Careful monitoring of partial thromboplastin time and adjustment of heparin dosage are recommended during coadministration of heparin and intravenous nitroglycerin.Antithrombin III (human) The anticoagulant effect of heparin is enhanced by concurrent treatment with antithrombin III (human) in patients with hereditary antithrombin III deficiency. To reduce the risk of bleeding, reduced dosage of heparin is recommended during treatment with antithrombin III (human).. Drugs that interfere with platelet aggregation: May induce bleeding (7.2).

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING. Heparin Sodium Injection, USP preserved with benzyl alcohol is available as follows: NDCStrength(Concentration)Vial FillVolumeVial TypePackage Factor25021-400-0125021-400-101,000 USP units per mL10,000 USP units per 10 mL(1,000 USP units per mL)1 mL10 mL1 mL VialMulti-Dose Vial25 vials per carton25 vials per carton25021-400-3030,000 USP units per 30 mL(1,000 USP units per mL)30 mLMulti-Dose Vial25 vials per carton25021-402-0125021-402-105,000 USP units per mL50,000 USP units per 10 mL(5,000 USP units per mL)1 mL10 mL1 mL VialMulti-Dose Vial25 vials per carton25 vials per carton25021-403-0125021-403-0410,000 USP units per mL40,000 USP units per mL(10,000 USP units per mL)1 mL4 mL1 mL VialMulti-Dose Vial25 vials per carton25 vials per cartonSterile, Nonpyrogenic.The container closure is not made with natural rubber latex.Storage ConditionsStore at 20 to 25C (68 to 77F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.].

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE. Heparin Sodium Injection is indicated for:Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolismPrevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic diseaseAtrial fibrillation with embolizationTreatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation)Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgeryProphylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolismAnticoagulant use in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation, and dialysis procedures. Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Prevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic disease. Atrial fibrillation with embolization. Treatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation). Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgery. Prophylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolism. Anticoagulant use in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation, and dialysis procedures. Heparin Sodium Injection is an anticoagulant indicated for (1)Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolismPrevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic diseaseAtrial fibrillation with embolizationTreatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation)Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgeryProphylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolismUse as an anticoagulant in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation, and dialysis procedures. Prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Prevention of postoperative deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients undergoing major abdominothoracic surgery or who, for other reasons, are at risk of developing thromboembolic disease. Atrial fibrillation with embolization. Treatment of acute and chronic consumptive coagulopathies (disseminated intravascular coagulation). Prevention of clotting in arterial and cardiac surgery. Prophylaxis and treatment of peripheral arterial embolism. Use as an anticoagulant in blood transfusions, extracorporeal circulation, and dialysis procedures.

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY. 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of FertilityNo long-term studies in animals have been performed to evaluate carcinogenic potential of heparin. Also, no reproduction studies in animals have been performed concerning mutagenesis or impairment of fertility.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.

10 OVERDOSAGE. Bleeding is the chief sign of heparin overdosage.Neutralization of Heparin EffectWhen clinical circumstances (bleeding) require reversal of the heparin effect, protamine sulfate (1% solution) by slow infusion will neutralize heparin sodium. No more than 50 mg should be administered, very slowly, in any 10-minute period. Each mg of protamine sulfate neutralizes approximately 100 USP heparin units. The amount of protamine required decreases over time as heparin is metabolized. Although the metabolism of heparin is complex, it may, for the purpose of choosing protamine dose, be assumed to have half-life of about 1/2 hour after intravenous injection.Because fatal reactions often resembling anaphylaxis have been reported with protamine, it should be given only when resuscitation techniques and treatment of anaphylactoid shock are readily available.For additional information consult the labeling of Protamine Sulfate Injection.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.

Sample Package Label. Label1.jpg.

PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. HemorrhageInform patients that it may take them longer than usual to stop bleeding, that they may bruise and/or bleed more easily when they are treated with heparin, and that they should report any unusual bleeding or bruising to their physician. Hemorrhage can occur at virtually any site in patients receiving heparin. Fatal hemorrhages have occurred [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].Prior to SurgeryAdvise patients to inform physicians and dentists that they are receiving heparin before any surgery is scheduled [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].Heparin-Induced ThrombocytopeniaInform patients of the risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). HIT may progress to the development of venous and arterial thromboses, condition known as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (HITT). HIT and HITT can occur up to several weeks after the discontinuation of heparin therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].HypersensitivityInform patients that generalized hypersensitivity reactions have been reported. Necrosis of the skin has been reported at the site of subcutaneous injection of heparin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8), Adverse Reactions (6.1)].Other MedicationsBecause of the risk of hemorrhage, advise patients to inform their physicians and dentists of all medications they are taking, including non-prescription medications, and before starting any new medication [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].SAGENT(R)Mfd. for SAGENT PharmaceuticalsSchaumburg, IL 60195 (USA)Made in India(C)2017 Sagent Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Revised: June 2017SAGENT Pharmaceuticals(R).

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION. These highlights do not include all the information needed to use HEPARIN SODIUM INJECTION safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for HEPARIN SODIUM INJECTION.HEPARIN SODIUM injection, for intravenous or subcutaneous useInitial U.S. Approval: 1939.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS. 8.1 PregnancyRisk SummaryThere are no available data on heparin sodium use in pregnant women to inform drug-associated risk of major birth defects and miscarriage. In published reports, heparin exposure during pregnancy did not show evidence of an increased risk of adverse maternal or fetal outcomes in humans. No teratogenicity, but early embryo-fetal death was observed in animal reproduction studies with administration of heparin sodium to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses approximately 10 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 45,000 units/ day [see DATA]. Consider the benefits and risks of heparin sodium for the mother and possible risks to the fetus when prescribing heparin sodium to pregnant woman.If available, preservative-free heparin sodium is recommended when heparin therapy is needed during pregnancy. There are no known adverse outcomes associated with fetal exposure to the preservative benzyl alcohol through maternal drug administration; however, the preservative benzyl alcohol can cause serious adverse events and death when administered intravenously to neonates and infants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.DataHuman DataThe maternal and fetal outcomes associated with uses of heparin via various dosing methods and administration routes during pregnancy have been investigated in numerous studies. These studies generally reported normal deliveries with no maternal or fetal bleeding and no other complications.Animal DataIn published study conducted in rats and rabbits, pregnant animals received heparin intravenously during organogenesis at dose of 10,000 units/kg/day, approximately 10 times the maximum human daily dose based on body weight. The number of early resorptions increased in both species. There was no evidence of teratogenic effects.8.2 LactationRisk SummaryIf available, preservative-free heparin sodium is recommended when heparin therapy is needed during lactation. Benzyl alcohol present in maternal serum is likely to cross into human milk and may be orally absorbed by nursing infant. There is no information regarding the presence of heparin sodium in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Due to its large molecular weight, heparin is not likely to be excreted in human milk, and any heparin in milk would not be orally absorbed by nursing infant. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mothers clinical need for heparin sodium and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from heparin sodium or from the underlying maternal condition [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4)].8.4 Pediatric UseThere are no adequate and well controlled studies on heparin use in pediatric patients. Pediatric dosing recommendations are based on clinical experience [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].Carefully examine all heparin sodium vials to confirm choice of the correct strength prior to administration of the drug. Pediatric patients, including neonates, have died as result of medication errors in which heparin sodium vials have been confused with catheter lock flush vials [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].Benzyl Alcohol ToxicityUse preservative-free heparin sodium in neonates and infants.Serious adverse reactions including fatal reactions and the gasping syndrome occurred in premature neonates and infants in the neonatal intensive care unit who received drugs containing benzyl alcohol as preservative. In these cases, benzyl alcohol dosages of 99 to 234 mg/kg/day produced high levels of benzyl alcohol and its metabolites in the blood and urine (blood levels of benzyl alcohol were 0.61 to 1.378 mmol/L). Additional adverse reactions included gradual neurological deterioration, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage, hematologic abnormalities, skin breakdown, hepatic and renal failure, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Preterm, low-birth weight infants may be more likely to develop these reactions because they may be less able to metabolize benzyl alcohol.8.5 Geriatric UseThere are limited adequate and well-controlled studies in patients 65 years and older, however, higher incidence of bleeding has been reported in patients, particularly women, over 60 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Patients over 60 years of age may require lower doses of heparin.Lower doses of heparin may be indicated in these patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].. Pregnancy: Preservative-free formulation recommended. Limited human data in pregnant women. (8.1)Lactation: Advise females not to breastfeed. (8.2)Pediatric Use: Use preservative-free formulation in neonates and infants. (8.4)Geriatric Use: higher incidence of bleeding reported in patients, particularly women, over 60 years of age. (8.5)See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION.Revised: 6/2017. Pregnancy: Preservative-free formulation recommended. Limited human data in pregnant women. (8.1). Lactation: Advise females not to breastfeed. (8.2). Pediatric Use: Use preservative-free formulation in neonates and infants. (8.4). Geriatric Use: higher incidence of bleeding reported in patients, particularly women, over 60 years of age. (8.5).