Thromb Haemost 2000; 84(06): 1052-1056
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1614170
Review Article
Schattauer GmbH

Characterization of Unfractionated Heparin: Comparison of Materials from the last 50 Years

Barbara Mulloy
1   From the Division of Haematology and Laboratory for Molecular Structure, National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Potters Bar, Herts., UK
,
Elaine Gray
1   From the Division of Haematology and Laboratory for Molecular Structure, National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Potters Bar, Herts., UK
,
Trevor W. Barrowcliffe
1   From the Division of Haematology and Laboratory for Molecular Structure, National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, South Mimms, Potters Bar, Herts., UK
› Institutsangaben
Weitere Informationen

Publikationsverlauf

Received 19. März 2000

Accepted after resubmission 24. Juli 2000

Publikationsdatum:
13. Dezember 2017 (online)

Summary

Physicochemical and anticoagulant characteristics of 27 samples from recent batches of commercially produced unfractionated heparin have been determined as part of the process of establishment of the 5th International Standard Unfractionated Heparin. They have been compared with current heparin standards (European Pharmacopoeia, United States Pharmacopoeia, Chinese), with the 4th International Standard Unfractionated Heparin, and with the three predecessor International Standards. The results indicate that the 4th International Standard Unfractionated Heparin, established in 1982, has significantly lower molecular weight and specific activity than recently produced heparin; this is also true of all preceding International Standard Heparins and of the United States Pharmacopoeial standard. The composition of commercial unfractionated heparin may therefore have changed over time; reasons for this are discussed.

 
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