UFH
Medical abbreviation · Drug Class
| Stands for | Unfractionated heparin |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
UFH stands for Unfractionated heparin, a drug class abbreviation.
Standard heparin, extracted mostly from pig intestines, given IV by weight-based infusion or subcutaneously for clot treatment and prevention. Its short half-life and full reversibility with protamine make it useful when bleeding risk is high or procedures are planned.
Example: UFH drip per nomogram, 80 units/kg bolus then 18 units/kg/h; anti-Xa in 6 hours.
Usage notes
Heparin is on ISMP's high-alert list. In 2007, the newborn twins of actor Dennis Quaid received 1,000 times the intended dose when vials of 10,000 units/mL were mistaken for 10 units/mL flushes, and in 2008 contaminated heparin from overseas suppliers was linked to deaths, prompting stricter testing. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a serious immune complication.
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.