Which of the following is the specific antidote for Heparin toxicity?

Appeared in: RML 2023

Explanation

Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin overdose.
It is a positively charged molecule that binds with the negatively charged heparin molecule.
This binding forms a stable, inactive complex, which neutralizes heparin's anticoagulant effect.
The neutralization process is rapid, occurring within 5 minutes of intravenous administration.

Option A: Vitamin K is not the antidote for heparin. It is used to reverse the effects of a different type of anticoagulant.
Option C: Calcium gluconate does not counteract heparin. Its primary uses are related to electrolyte imbalances and their cardiac effects.
Option D: Naloxone has no effect on anticoagulants like heparin. It acts on specific receptors in the central nervous system.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacological Antidotes as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must know the correct antidotes for emergency situations. Administering the wrong antidote can be fatal.
When a patient is on heparin therapy, especially a continuous IV infusion, protamine sulfate should be readily accessible on the unit.
Monitoring lab values like aPTT is crucial to prevent heparin toxicity. A value above the therapeutic range indicates an increased risk of bleeding and may require dose adjustment or reversal.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'specific antidote' and 'Heparin toxicity'.
This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of pharmacology.
Recall the major classes of anticoagulants and their specific reversal agents.
Evaluate each option: Vitamin K reverses warfarin, Calcium Gluconate reverses magnesium sulfate, and Naloxone reverses opioids.
By elimination, and by recalling the specific pairing, identify Protamine Sulfate as the correct antidote for heparin.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 2 pp. 108-110, 123-125

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 958-960

Practise the full RML 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.