Indications
- Enoxaparin is prescribed to prevent and treat harmful blood clots, thereby reducing the risk of stroke or heart attack.
- This medication works by decreasing the activity of clotting proteins in the blood, which helps to maintain smooth blood flow.
- Enoxaparin is classified as an anticoagulant or “blood thinner,” belonging to the heparin type.
- Medical conditions that elevate the risk of developing blood clots include certain surgeries (like knee/hip replacement, abdominal procedures), prolonged periods of immobility, specific types of heart attack, and unstable angina.
- In some cases, enoxaparin may be administered in combination with other anticoagulants for certain medical conditions.
Dosage and administration
- Before using enoxaparin, consult the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- This medication is administered via injection under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily in the abdomen (at least 2 inches away from the belly button). Do not inject into a muscle.
- The dosage and duration of treatment depend on your medical condition and response to therapy. Age and weight may also influence dosage for certain conditions. Use this medication regularly at the same time(s) each day for optimal results.
- If administering at home, familiarize yourself with all preparation and usage instructions provided by your healthcare professional and the product packaging. Before use, visually inspect the product for any particles or discoloration. If present, do not use the liquid. Clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol before each dose. Rotate injection sites to minimize skin injury. Avoid rubbing the site after injection to reduce bruising. Learn proper storage and disposal methods for medical supplies.
- This medication may also be administered intravenously by a healthcare professional as directed by your doctor.
Side effects
- Mild irritation, pain, bruising, redness, and swelling at the injection site may occur with this medication. Tiredness or fever are also possible side effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- It’s important to note that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor believes the benefits outweigh the risks of potential side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
- Enoxaparin can lead to bleeding if it excessively affects your blood clotting proteins. Notify your doctor immediately if you observe any serious signs of bleeding, such as unusual pain, swelling, discomfort, prolonged bleeding, easy bruising, dark urine, black stools, severe headache, confusion, vision changes, unusual dizziness, fainting, seizures, weakness, or numbness.
- While very rare, a severe allergic reaction to this drug is possible. Seek immediate medical help if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list does not cover all possible side effects. If you notice any other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before using enoxaparin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, heparin, pork products, or any other allergies you may have. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have artificial heart valves, kidney or liver disease, bleeding or blood problems, a history of low platelet counts after previous heparin treatment, stroke, high blood pressure, certain eye problems, stomach or intestinal problems, recent spinal procedures or punctures, spine problems, or recent eye, brain, or spinal cord surgery.
- Limit alcohol intake while using this medication to reduce the risk of stomach bleeding.
- Before undergoing surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all medications you are using, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products.
- Be cautious with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured while taking this medication.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medication, particularly bleeding.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly needed after discussing the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- Consult your doctor before breastfeeding, as it is unclear whether this drug passes into breast milk.