Low Molecular Weight Heparin Flashcards
1
Q
What drug class is LMWH? Give 2 examples.
A
Anticoagulant
Dalteparin
Enoxaparin
2
Q
What are the common indications of LMWH?
A
- Preventing venous thromboembolism
- Perioperative prophylaxis
- Pregnancy - monitor
- Secondary prevention for DVT and PE
- ACS, NSTEMI, post-STEMI
Given with warfarin as the initial drug, as quicker acting
3
Q
What is the mechanism of action of LMWH?
A
Inhibits Xa by enhancing ATIII (antithrombin-III) activity
4
Q
What are the common adverse reactions of LMWH?
A
- Bruising and bleeding - intracranial, site of injection, GI, epistaxis
- Heparin induced thrombocytopenia (2-14 days after, autoimmune antibodies develop and deplete platelets)
- Hyperkalaemia due to inhibited aldosterone secretion
- Osteoporosis (lower risk with LMWH compared to UFH)
5
Q
What are the common drug-drug interactions of LMWH?
A
- Other anti thrombotic drugs
* ACEi/ARB and spironolactone - risk of raised K+
