Overview

Annually, millions of patients receive heparin for indications from routine catheter flushes to preventing the formation of thrombi during cardiac bypass surgery.  Although heparin is an extremely effective anticoagulant, like any drug, it is not without adverse effects. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is an immune-mediated response to heparin.

Faculty in this interactive symposium will provide attendees with an overview of HIT, including current treatment guidelines. Emphasis will be placed on the challenges associated with currently available treatments and highlight emerging therapeutic options, including both drugs currently undergoing clinical trials and novel use of currently available antithrombotics. The recently updated clinical guidelines for the treatment and prevention of HIT, published by the American College of Chest Physicians, will be highlighted. This symposium will also feature clinical pearls showcasing where pharmacists can have the greatest impact in the treatment of patients with HIT.