Final answer:
Heparin acts by removing coagulation factors and inhibiting activated clotting factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Heparin is an anticoagulant that acts to remove coagulation factors and inhibit activated clotting factors. There are two main actions associated with heparin:
- Removal of coagulation factors: Heparin binds to antithrombin III, which then binds to and inactivates several coagulation factors, including factor X and thrombin. This prevents the further formation of fibrin, which is necessary for clotting.
- Inhibition of activated clotting factors: Heparin also inhibits the activity of activated clotting factors, such as activated factor II (thrombin). By inhibiting these factors, heparin prevents the clotting process from continuing.