Effects of Heparin on Carbohydrate Metabolism in the Rabbit

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Abstract
The effects of heparin on carbohydrate metabolism in the rabbit were investigated and the following results were obtained: heparin causes a highly significant rise in the normal fasting blood glucose level, which can be prevented by the previous administration of Priscoline (a sympathetic block). Heparin does not significantly affect the hyperglycemia induced by small amounts of epinephrine although a slight increase in the intensity and duration can be observed. Heparin has no significant effect on the hyperglycemia induced by glucagon, the hyperglycemic factor of the pancreas. Heparin significantly diminishes the intensity of the insulin-induced hypoglycemia. On the basis of these results, it is postulated that multiple injections of heparin cause an endogenous release of epinephrine in the rabbit.