What are the Risks and Side Effects of Heparin in Neonates?
While heparin is beneficial, it comes with potential risks and side effects:
1. Bleeding: The most significant risk is bleeding, which can range from minor bruising to severe hemorrhage.
2. Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT): A rare but serious condition where heparin causes a decrease in platelet count, leading to paradoxical clotting.
3. Osteoporosis: Long-term use of heparin can lead to reduced bone density, though this is less of a concern in neonates due to the short duration of therapy.
