What it means
A protein made by the liver that switches off thrombin and other clotting factors. heparinHEP-uh-rinAn anticoagulant drug, given by injection or IV, that keeps blood clots from forming or growing.Full entry works by making antithrombin act much faster. Some people are born with too little (hereditary antithrombin deficiency) and get blood clots easily; for them it can be given by IV around surgery or childbirth. A blood test measures its level.
For the nurse
While it is being given, especially with heparin, watch for bleeding at IV sites, in the urine and stool, and from the gums.
At a glance
| Drug class | anticoagulant (plasma protein) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Thrombate III |
| Also written | antithrombin III, Thrombate III |
Related terms
thrombosis
The forming of a blood clot (a thrombus) inside a blood vessel or the heart.
anticoagulant
A drug that slows the blood's ability to form clots.
heparin
An anticoagulant drug, given by injection or IV, that keeps blood clots from forming or growing.