Patients who have excessive bleeding after surgery or after dialysis may be given protamine sulfate. This medication reverses the effects of heparins, a class of medications that thin the blood to prevent clots during these procedures.

Side Effects/Warnings

This medication can cause severely low blood pressure, which is characterized by dizziness, drowsiness, feeling flushed and feeling generally unwell. It can also cause heart problems and high blood pressure in the lungs. Patients who have heart or respiratory problems should not take this medication.

Some patients have a severe allergic reaction to this medication. If you have difficulty breathing, experience swelling of the tongue or mouth or develop hives or a rash as a result of this medication, get immediate medical help.