| Drug Class |
Low molecular weight heparin |
| Mechanism |
Activation of antithrombin causing inactivation of coagulation enzymes thrombin (factor IIA), factor Xa and factor IXA |
| Typical Dose |
40mg |
| Indications |
- VTE in pregnancy
- DVT prophylaxis
- DVT & PE treatment in low risk of recurrence patients
- Unstable angina
|
| Contra-indications |
- Haemophilia/haemorrhagic disorders
- Thrombocytopenia
- Recent cerebral bleed
- Severe liver disease
- Peptic ulcer disese
|
| Side-effects |
- Haemorrhage
- Thrombocytopenia
|
| Interactions |
Aspirin - increased bleeding risk |
| Elimination |
|
| Additional Notes |
As effective as unfractionated heparins but decreased risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and act for longer. Immediate effect so suitable for acute venous events. Can be reversed by IV protamine sulphate. |
ALPHA