difference between heparin and warfarin
heparin is the drug used in the acute hospital setting to begin immediate anticoagulation because its onset of action is immediate (within 20 minutes). ptt levels will be monitored every 6 hours to titrate the dose of heparin. coumadin is started within a day or two. coumadin needs several days for its effects to build within the persons system, so the patient may have their heparin drip going while they are getting a daily dose of the coumadin.