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Heparin Lock Flush for children and young adults

Supportive Care

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What is Heparin Lock Flush for children and young adults?

For patients who weigh more than 3 kg (6.6 lbs)

Heparin is an anticoagulant (AN ty koh AG yoo lent), a medicine that helps keep blood clots from forming. It does not dissolve blood clots that have already formed but may prevent the clots from becoming larger. It also is sometimes called a blood thinner. In low doses it can be used to prevent blood clots in central venous lines (catheters) when the lines are not in use.

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Possible side effects

  • This medicine is offered in different strengths. Always check to make sure that you receive the same strength of heparin each time you pick up a new supply.
  • If you receive a different strength of heparin, call your pharmacist.
  • Never rely on the color of a label or bottle size as the only way to identify the right strength of heparin.
  • Only use the amount of Heparin Lock Flush that your doctor or nurse has told you to use.
  • The right dose of Heparin Lock Flush needed to flush each line is 3ml of 10 units per ml of Heparin Lock Flush. This means that each lumen (central line tube) is flushed with 30 units of Heparin Lock Flush each time.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take Heparin Lock Flush will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • This medicine is offered in different strengths. Always check to make sure that you receive the same strength of heparin each time you pick up a new supply.
  • If you receive a different strength of heparin, call your pharmacist.
  • Never rely on the color of a label or bottle size as the only way to identify the right strength of heparin.
  • Only use the amount of Heparin Lock Flush that your doctor or nurse has told you to use.
  • The right dose of Heparin Lock Flush needed to flush each line is 3ml of 10 units per ml of Heparin Lock Flush. This means that each lumen (central line tube) is flushed with 30 units of Heparin Lock Flush each time.

Know the amount of Heparin Lock Flush allowed per day

  • The most Heparin Lock Flush a patient should get in one day (24 hours) is 40 units per kilogram (kg) of the patient’s weight. Too much heparin in a 24-hour period can cause the blood to become too thin, which can lead to bleeding problems.
  • To find out how much Heparin Lock Flush a child can get in a day, multiply 40 times the patient’s weight in kilograms (kg).
  • The patient’s weight in kilograms ________ x 40 units = _________ units per day
  • To find out how many flushes that would be in a day, please talk to your child’s St. Judenurse or doctor.
  • Remember: When the patient’s weight changes, the amount of Heparin Lock Flush that can be used per day also changes.

Storage of Heparin Lock Flush for children and young adults

  • Store Heparin Lock Flush at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
  • Do not freeze Heparin Lock Flush.
  • Throw out any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2024