A patient with a history of deep vein thrombosis is prescribed subcutaneous heparin before surgery. The patient asks you if the heparin can be taken orally instead of by injection. What is your best response?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Heparin is given by injection because it cannot be absorbed orally. Heparin is a large molecule that cannot pass through the gastrointestinal tract and be absorbed into the bloodstream intact. Therefore, it must be administered via injection, either subcutaneously or intravenously. In addition, heparin given by injection works faster than oral heparin because it is absorbed more quickly and directly into the bloodstream.

A Patient with a History of Deep Vein Thrombosis Is