Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
protamine
Pronunciation: PROH-tah-meen
Medication used to reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin following cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Protamine sulfate is a positively charged protein derived from salmon sperm that binds to negatively charged heparin molecules, effectively neutralizing heparin's anticoagulant effect. In cardiovascular anesthesia, protamine is routinely administered at the conclusion of cardiopulmonary bypass to restore normal coagulation. However, protamine can cause serious allergic reactions and hemodynamic instability, requiring careful monitoring during administration.
Usage
Usage note: Note the potential for allergic reactions in patient history documentation.
In Context
- "Protamine 50 mg was administered slowly to reverse heparin anticoagulation." — Anesthesia record
- "The patient developed protamine reaction with severe hypotension and bronchospasm." — Adverse event report
Also known as
protamine sulfate
Contrasted with
heparin
Don't confuse with
procainamide
propranolol