Low Molecular Weight Heparin (Dalteparin, Enoxaparin)
Also known as: Clexane, Fragmin
Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is an injectable medication used to prevent or treat dangerous blood clots. * It is usually given as an injection under the skin. Your veterinarian will show you how to administer this safely. * **Watch closely for any signs of unusual bleeding**, such as bruising, pale gums, nosebleeds, or dark/tarry stools. Contact your vet immediately if these occur. * **Do not give your pet any other medications**, especially pain relievers like aspirin or NSAIDs, without consulting your vet, as this can severely increase the risk of bleeding.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Thromboembolic complications and hypercoagulable syndromes
- Thromboembolic complications and hypercoagulable syndromes
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Haematoma formation (if administered IM)
- Haemorrhage (especially in thrombocytopenic patients or those with DIC)
Cautions & contraindications
- Bleeding disorders
- Severe renal dysfunction
- > **Do not administer intramuscularly (IM)** as it may result in haematoma formation. > Use with extreme caution in patients with DIC, as it may worsen haemorrhage, especially if the patient is thrombocytopenic. > Do not mix other drugs in the same syringe as heparin.
Drug interactions
- Aspirin: Can cause changes in coagulation status, increasing bleeding risk
- NSAIDs: Can cause changes in coagulation status, increasing bleeding risk
- ACTH: Heparin may antagonize ACTH
- Corticosteroids: Heparin may antagonize corticosteroids
- Insulin: Heparin may antagonize insulin
- Diazepam: Heparin may increase plasma levels of diazepam
- Antihistamines: May partially counteract the actions of heparin
- Digoxin: May partially counteract the actions of heparin
- Tetracyclines: May partially counteract the actions of heparin
Frequently asked questions
What is Low Molecular Weight Heparin (Dalteparin, Enoxaparin) used for in pets?
Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is an injectable medication used to prevent or treat dangerous blood clots. * It is usually given as an injection under the skin. Your veterinarian will show you how to administer this safely. * **Watch closely for any signs of unusual bleeding**, such as bruising, pale gums, nosebleeds, or dark/tarry stools. Contact your vet immediately if these occur. * **Do not give your pet any other medications**, especially pain relievers like aspirin or NSAIDs, without consulting your vet, as this can severely increase the risk of bleeding.
Is Low Molecular Weight Heparin (Dalteparin, Enoxaparin) safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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