Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is heparin. It can help protect you from blood clots. You may need protection from blood clots if you have certain conditions. These conditions include recent surgery, an abnormal heart beat called 'atrial fibrillation', and cases when you are sitting or lying down most of the day. Heparin can also be an important part of treating blood clots that have already happened. It can be injected into the skin or infused into a vein.

Most people tolerate heparin well, but some side effects can occur. You could have mild redness or irritation at the injection site. You may also bruise or bleed easier than before. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking heparin, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

As with any medicine, more serious side effects can occur. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor will follow you closely. You should report any unusual changes to your body. You should tell your doctor right away if you get dark spots under your skin, a rash, or unexplained bruising or bleeding. This includes nosebleeds, blood in your urine, or stools that are black and like tar. 

Heparin can interact with other medicines. You should tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of the medicines that you take or plan to take. You should not take aspirin or pain relievers unless your doctor says it's okay. Also, talk to your dentist before any dental work. 

For best results with heparin, take care to avoid injury and take it as directed to help prevent or treat blood clots.