What medication can be used as an antidote for heparin overdose?

Protamine sulfate is the medication used as an antidote for heparin overdose. Heparin is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting thrombin and factor Xa, thus preventing the formation of blood clots. If a patient experiences an overdose or significant bleeding due to heparin, protamine sulfate can neutralize its effects.

Protamine sulfate binds to heparin, forming a stable complex that inactivates the anticoagulant. This is particularly important in clinical settings where rapid reversal of heparin's effects is necessary, such as during surgical procedures or in emergency situations involving bleeding.

Other options like vitamin K are used to reverse anticoagulation effects of vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin, and are not effective for heparin. Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic medication, and warfarin is another type of anticoagulant that should not be used for reversing heparin overdose. Understanding the specific antidotes appropriate for particular anticoagulants is essential for effective and safe management in clinical practice.