BD Vacutainer® Heparin Tubes

BD Vacutainer® plasma tubes for clinical chemistry are available with the spray-dried additives lithium heparin or sodium heparin. Heparin is a heterogeneous mixture of anionic mucopolysaccharides and belongs to the substance class of glycosamine glycans. It acts as an anticoagulant by forming a complex with antithrombin. This complex inhibits thrombin and activated factor X, thus preventing clotting.

Optimal anticoagulation is achieved in all BD Vacutainer® tubes by using 17 IU of heparin per mL of blood at the correct fill level. Standardising the concentration of heparin in all blood collection tubes for heparin plasma collection is particularly important for reliable laboratory results, as there is evidence that using too much heparin in certain tests could lead to shifts in laboratory values. The lithium heparin in BD Vacutainer® tubes is spray-dried on the inner wall of the tube using a special process, so that the additive is evenly distributed and optimum solubility is achieved. As a result, the heparin mixes quickly and efficiently with the blood during blood collection, minimising the formation of microclots and fibrin.

PET, Li-Heparin (17 IU/mL), with paper label, Hemogard closure

Centrifugation conditions

≤ 1300 x g for 10 minutes at 18-25 °C