Heparin Ointment 25 g

What is Heparin Ointment?

Heparin Ointment is a topical medication used to promote healthy blood circulation and prevent blood clots in various medical conditions.

It belongs to the class of cardiovascular system drugs and acts as a vasoprotector.

The ointment is commonly prescribed for treating superficial vein inflammation and reducing symptoms related to external hemorrhoids, localized swelling, bruises, and minor skin injuries.

Heparin Ointment contains the following active ingredients per gram: Heparin sodium (100 IU), Benzocaine (40 mg), and Benzyl nicotinate (0.8 mg).

It also includes several excipients such as glycerol, petroleum jelly, stearic acid, peach oil, emulsifier No. 1, methylparaben, propylparaben, and purified water. These ingredients help enhance the ointment's texture and stability.

What are the main uses of Heparin Ointment?

Heparin Ointment is primarily used by adults and children over the age of one for the following conditions:

1. Prevention and Treatment of Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Superficial thrombophlebitis is the inflammation of veins located just below the surface of the skin, often caused by a blood clot. Heparin Ointment helps to reduce inflammation and prevents the formation of further clots by improving blood flow in the affected veins. This can help alleviate pain, redness, and swelling associated with the condition.

2. Post-injection and Post-infusion Phlebitis

Phlebitis is the inflammation of a vein, which can sometimes occur after injections or intravenous infusions. Heparin Ointment helps to reduce this inflammation by promoting blood circulation in the affected area, relieving discomfort, and speeding up recovery. This is especially useful for patients who receive frequent injections or IV therapies.

3. External Hemorrhoids and Postpartum Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal area, which can become painful and inflamed. Heparin Ointment helps reduce swelling, relieve pain, and heal inflamed hemorrhoids, making it especially effective for treating external hemorrhoids. It is also commonly used for postpartum hemorrhoids, which can develop in women after childbirth due to increased pressure in the pelvic area.

4. Lymphedema (Elephantiasis)

Lymphedema, also known as elephantiasis, is a condition where there is abnormal swelling caused by a build-up of lymphatic fluid. Heparin Ointment can be used to help manage this swelling by improving blood flow and reducing fluid accumulation in the tissues. While it does not cure the underlying condition, it helps to reduce symptoms and discomfort.

5. Surface Periphlebitis

This condition refers to the inflammation of the veins that lie near the skin's surface, often due to irritation or injury. Heparin Ointment is used to soothe the inflamed veins, reducing symptoms like redness, warmth, and discomfort in the affected area.

6. Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, which can cause pain, redness, and swelling along the affected vessel. By enhancing circulation and reducing inflammation, Heparin Ointment helps alleviate these symptoms and promote faster healing.

7. Superficial Mastitis

Superficial mastitis is the inflammation of breast tissue, often seen in breastfeeding women. While typically treated with antibiotics, Heparin Ointment can be applied to the affected area to reduce localized inflammation, pain, and swelling.

8. Localized Infiltrates and Swellings

Infiltrates are localized accumulations of cells or fluid in tissues, often caused by inflammation or injury. Heparin Ointment is effective in treating these infiltrates by reducing inflammation and promoting the reabsorption of excess fluid. It is also useful for localized swelling, where tissue has become swollen due to injury or irritation.

9. Bruises and Injuries without Skin Breakage

Heparin Ointment is frequently used to treat bruises and injuries to soft tissues (such as muscles, tendons, and joints) where the skin is not broken. By improving blood circulation to the injured area, the ointment helps to reduce pain, speed up the healing process, and lessen the appearance of bruises.

10. Subcutaneous Hematoma

A subcutaneous hematoma refers to a collection of blood under the skin, which can occur due to trauma or injury. Heparin Ointment helps in the reabsorption of blood clots and reduces swelling, allowing for quicker healing and less discomfort.

Uses for Children Older than One Year

For children over the age of one, Heparin Ointment is used to treat:

• Localized swelling and infiltrates caused by minor injuries or inflammation.
• Bruises and hematomas under the skin, often resulting from falls or bumps, which are common in active children.

Special Considerations for Hemorrhoid Treatment

For the treatment of thrombosed external hemorrhoids, the ointment is applied directly to the affected area using a gauze pad or cloth, which is then fixed over the hemorrhoidal tissue.

For internal use, a tampon soaked in Heparin Ointment can be inserted into the rectum to provide targeted relief.

Duration of Treatment

For most conditions, Heparin Ointment is applied 2-3 times daily until symptoms improve. Depending on the condition:

• For superficial thrombophlebitis, localized swelling, and bruises, treatment usually lasts between 3 to 7 days.
• For hemorrhoids, treatment might continue for 3 to 14 days until symptoms fully subside.

In cases where long-term use or application over large areas is necessary, particularly for pregnant women or elderly individuals, medical supervision is recommended.

How should Heparin Ointment be applied?

The ointment should be applied externally to the affected area. For most conditions, a thin layer (approximately 0.5 to 1 g) is applied to the affected area, typically a region 3-5 cm in diameter. Gently rub the ointment into the skin 2-3 times per day.

For external hemorrhoids, Heparin Ointment should be applied on a gauze or cloth and placed directly on the affected area. This can be done using rectal tampons if necessary. Treatment should continue until symptoms subside, typically for 3 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the condition.

What precautions should you take when using Heparin Ointment?

Before using Heparin Ointment, consider the following precautions:

• Do not apply the ointment to open wounds or infected areas.
• Avoid use if you have hypersensitivity to any ingredients in the ointment.
• It is not recommended for use in children under one year of age.
• Use with caution if you have thrombocytopenia or a tendency to bleed.
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or elderly, consult a doctor for long-term use, especially when treating large areas of the skin.

Can Heparin Ointment interact with other medications?

Yes, Heparin Ointment should not be used alongside certain medications.

Avoid applying the ointment concurrently with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tetracycline antibiotics, or H1-receptor antagonists (antihistamines) to prevent potential interactions.

What side effects can occur with Heparin Ointment?

Most people tolerate Heparin Ointment well, but some may experience side effects such as:

• Allergic skin reactions: Itching, rash, or redness.
• Skin irritation: Including sensitivity at the application site.

If any severe reactions occur, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

How should Heparin Ointment be stored?

Store Heparin Ointment at a temperature below 25°C (77°F) and ensure it is kept out of reach of children.

Do not use the ointment after the expiration date listed on the packaging, which is typically three years from the date of manufacture.