what is the drug heparin used for
Heparin is an injectable drug used to prevent and treat blood clots in the veins, arteries, or lungs. The medicine is in a class of drugs known as anticoagulants (blood thinners).It works by decreasing the blood's ability to clot. Heparin is often given to people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary emboli, certain blood clotting disorders, and to bed-or wheelchair-bound people.It's used during dialysis, blood transfusions, and blood sampling.It's also given before surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots. Heparin was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1939.t's used during dialysis, blood transfusions, and blood sampling. It's also given before surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots. Heparin was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1939.