Unfractionated Heparin (UFH) is a widely used anticoagulant that has been in clinical use for many decades. It is a naturally occurring polysaccharide that inhibits blood clot formation by activating antithrombin III, which in turn inactivates thrombin and factor Xa. UFH is commonly used in various clinical settings, including the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism, acute coronary syndromes, and during procedures such as dialysis and cardiac surgery.
