Protamine Sulphate (Protamine Sulfate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Prescription RequiredQuick Facts
What Is Protamine Sulphate Used For?
Protamine Sulphate is a protein medication used in hospitals to counteract the effects of heparin when there is excessive bleeding.
Primary Uses
Used to neutralize heparin when there is excessive bleeding from heparin administration before and after surgery or after dialysis.
How It Works
Protamine sulfate is a protein that counteracts the effect of heparin, which is normally used to prevent blood clots from forming.
How to Take Protamine Sulphate
Protamine Sulphate is given only by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting through injection or infusion into a blood vessel.
Dosage Instructions
The dose will be determined by your doctor based on the amount of heparin that needs to be neutralized. Each 5 mL ampoule contains 50 mg of protamine sulfate.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Bleeding and bruising
- Dizziness
- Flushing and/or feeling of warmth
- Back pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Weakness or generally feeling unwell
- Stomach disturbances
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Signs of allergic reaction (shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue, rash, itching, hives)
- Bleeding
- Coughing up blood
- Slow or abnormal heartbeats
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings and precautions to be aware of before receiving Protamine Sulphate.
Who Should Not Take Protamine Sulphate
Do not use if you are allergic to protamine sulfate, protamine contained in insulin NPH (Neutral Protamine Hagedorn), or any of the ingredients. Not recommended for use in children.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medicines or substances (particularly fish), have diabetes and have received protamine insulin, have had heart surgery, are male and have had a vasectomy or are infertile, or have any other medical conditions.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. Your doctor will discuss possible risks and benefits. It is not known whether Protamine Sulphate passes into breast milk, so it should not be given during breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Some medicines may interfere with Protamine Sulphate and affect how it works. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking.
- Tell your doctor about any medicines, vitamins or supplements you buy without a prescription
- Check with your doctor if you are unsure about what medicines affect Protamine Sulphate
Alcohol & Driving
Be careful with activities that require alertness after receiving Protamine Sulphate.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful before you drive or use any machines or tools until you know how Protamine Sulphate affects you.
Storage
Protamine Sulphate will be stored in the hospital or clinic pharmacy. The injection should be kept where the temperature stays below 25°C and where young children cannot reach it. The expiry date will be checked by healthcare professionals.
Overdose Information
As Protamine Sulphate is given in hospital under professional supervision, overdose is very unlikely. Symptoms of overdose include low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, temporary flushing, and difficulty breathing with sensation of warmth. If you think you have received too much, immediately phone the Poisons Information Centre (13 11 26), contact your doctor, or go to the Emergency Department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protamine Sulphate works to counteract heparin effects, but the specific timing is not detailed in the available information. Your healthcare team will monitor your response.
You should tell your doctor if you are allergic to fish, as this is specifically mentioned as an important allergy to discuss before receiving this medication.
Your doctor will discuss the possible risks and benefits of using Protamine Sulphate during pregnancy. It’s important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you develop itching with swelling, skin rash, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or abnormal heart beats while receiving the medication.
It is not known whether Protamine Sulphate passes into breast milk, so it should not be given during breastfeeding. Discuss this with your doctor.
The medication information specifically mentions that male patients who have had a vasectomy or are infertile should inform their doctor, though the specific reason is not detailed in the available information.
Signs of allergic reaction include shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue, rash, itching, or hives. Tell your doctor or nurse immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.