HEPARIN SODIUM INJECTION,USP
Heparin is a heterogeneous group of straight-chain anionic mucopolysaccharides,
called glycosaminoglycans having anticoagulant properties. Although others may
be present, the main sugars occurring in heparin are:
(1) a-L-iduronic acid 2-sulfate,
(2) 2-deoxy-2-sulfamino-a-D-glucose 6-sulfate,
(3) b-D-glucuronic acid,
(4) 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-a-D-glucose, and
(5) a-L- iduronic acid.
These sugars are present in decreasing amounts, usually in the order (2) >
(1) > (4) > (3) > (5), and are joined by glycosidic linkages, forming polymers
of varying sizes. Heparin is strongly acidic because of its content of
covalently linked sulfate and carboxylic acid groups. In heparin sodium, the
acidic protons of the sulfate units are partially replaced by sodium ions.
Heparin Sodium Injection, USP is a sterile solution of heparin sodium derived
from porcine intestinal mucosa, standardized for anticoagulant activity, in
water for injection. It is to be administered by intravenous or deep subcutaneous
route. The potency is determined by a biological assay using a USP reference
standard based on units of heparin activity per milligram.
Heparin Sodium Injection, USP (porcine) is available as follows:
Each 1,000 Units/mL contains: 1,000 USP Heparin Units (porcine); 9 mg sodium
chloride; Water for Injection q.s. Hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide may
have been added for pH adjustment (5.0-7.5).
