Dalteparin
Also known as: Fragmin, Boxol, Fragmine, Ligofragmin, Low Liquemine
> **Important**: Dalteparin is a blood thinner used to prevent dangerous blood clots. It must be given exactly as prescribed to be effective. * **Administration**: Given by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. If not using pre-filled syringes, use a very small gauge insulin or tuberculin syringe and needle (e.g., 27 gauge) as directed by your veterinarian. * **Technique**: Rotate injection sites to minimize soreness. **Do not rub** the injection site after giving the medication, as this can cause bruising or hematomas. * **Missed Doses**: Consistency is critical. If doses are skipped or not given regularly, life-threatening blood clots can form. * **Watch for Bleeding**: Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice: * Unexplained bruising, swelling at the injection site, or bleeding from the gums/nose. * Dark, tarry stools or blood in the urine. * Extreme lethargy, weakness, pale gums, or difficulty breathing.
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 disease prophylaxis/treatment
- Thromboembolic disease prophylaxis/treatment
- Prophylaxis of coagulation disorders in colic patients
- Thromboembolic disease prophylaxis/treatment
- Thromboembolic disease prophylaxis/treatment
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Hemorrhage (unlikely but possible)
- Injection site hematomas or pain
- Allergic reactions
- Neurologic sequelae secondary to epidural or spinal hematomas
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dalteparin, heparin, or pork products
- Active major bleeding
- Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
- Thrombocytopenia associated with positive in vitro tests for anti-platelet antibodies in the presence of dalteparin
- Intramuscular (IM) or Intravenous (IV) administration
- Use cautiously in patients with significant renal dysfunction as drug accumulation could result. Use with extreme caution in patients with increased risk of hemorrhage. Do not administer via IM or IV routes; must be given via subcutaneous injection only. Cannot be used interchangeably with other LMWHs or heparin sodium, as dosages differ for each. May cause asymptomatic, fully-reversible increases in AST or ALT.
Drug interactions
- Warfarin: Increased risk for hemorrhage
- Aspirin: Increased risk for hemorrhage
- Clopidogrel: Increased risk for hemorrhage
- Thrombolytic agents: Increased risk for hemorrhage
Frequently asked questions
What is Dalteparin used for in pets?
> **Important**: Dalteparin is a blood thinner used to prevent dangerous blood clots. It must be given exactly as prescribed to be effective. * **Administration**: Given by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. If not using pre-filled syringes, use a very small gauge insulin or tuberculin syringe and needle (e.g., 27 gauge) as directed by your veterinarian. * **Technique**: Rotate injection sites to minimize soreness. **Do not rub** the injection site after giving the medication, as this can cause bruising or hematomas. * **Missed Doses**: Consistency is critical. If doses are skipped or not given regularly, life-threatening blood clots can form. * **Watch for Bleeding**: Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice: * Unexplained bruising, swelling at the injection site, or bleeding from the gums/nose. * Dark, tarry stools or blood in the urine. * Extreme lethargy, weakness, pale gums, or difficulty breathing.
Is Dalteparin 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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