The difference between heparin and warfarin

The differences between heparin and warfarin lie in their drug components, mechanisms of action, and routes of administration. Heparin is an acidic mucopolysaccharide that exerts its anticoagulant effect via antithrombin III, and is primarily administered by subcutaneous or intravenous injection. Warfarin, on the other hand, is a dicoumarol derivative that achieves anticoagulation by antagonizing vitamin K, and must be administered orally.