Free Fatty Acids in Plasma and Platelets Following Low and High‐Dose Heparin during Alimentary Hyperlipaemia

Abstract

ABSTRACT A high caloric meal composed of mainly saturated or unsaturated fatty acids was given to 10 healthy male subjects. Three hours later, during the period of alimentary hyperlipaemia with high plasma triglyceride levels, they were given 5000 U heparin s.c. or 15000 U heparin i.v. During the subsequent three hours, plasma and platelet triglycerides, plasma and platelet FFA and platelet number were registered. A marked increase in plasma FFA was observed on both occasions, most pronounced initially after the high‐dose heparin. The concentrations were still markedly increased after both dosages three hours after administration. The platelet FFA also showed a moderate but significant increase at the end of the experiment. Both plasma and platelet FFA reflected the fatty acid composition of the dietary fatty acids. After high‐dose heparin, a positive correlation was established between the plasma TG level at the time of heparin administration and the subsequent increase in plasma FFA. A transient drop in the number of circulating platelets was registered after high‐dose heparin. In 6 patients with thromboembolic disorders treated with a continuous i.v. heparin infusion, no marked changes were observed in plasma TG or plasma FFA after an ordinary breakfast. The possible harmful effects of high levels of FFA are discussed. It is suggested that the actual plasma TG level should be estimated by inspection of plasma before heparin treatment is initiated.