DALTEPARIN
Background and Date of Approval
Dalteparin received initial approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on 31 December 1993. It was first marketed under the brand name Fragmin, and subsequent generic formulations have also been approved.
Uses
Dalteparin Injection has been developed to treat venous thromboembolism and its symptoms in adults and pediatric patients older than one month of age. It also prevents the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis in abdominal surgery, hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery and in people with severe movement restriction. In patients with unstable angina and non-Q wave myocardial infarction, Dalteparin prevents further heart complications.
How is it administered?
A healthcare professional will administer Dalteparin injection to the patients through subcutaneous route. Dalteparin is available as multidose solution for injection in the doses 2500IU, 5000IU and 10000IU. The accurate dose will be calculated according to the age, body weight and medical condition.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Dalteparin Injection are bleeding, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, abnormal values of liver enzymes and pain at the injection site. If you experience any allergic reactions after taking this injection, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Dalteparin injection is not recommended for patients with active bleeding, hypersensitivity and history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Tell your physician before taking this injection if you are allergic to Dalteparin sodium, heparin, benzyl alcohol or rubber. Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your blood count. Inform your healthcare practitioner if you are diagnosed with liver or kidney problem.
Precautions
Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby. Dalteparin injection is probably unsafe during pregnancy as it may increase the risk of thrombosis in pregnant women and is harmful for pregnant women and their foetus.
Word of Advice
Dalteparin carries a risk of bleeding and other adverse effects. Adequate rest is recommended during treatment. Maintain a well-balanced diet. If dizziness or visual disturbances occur, avoid driving or operating machinery. A cool compress applied to the injection site may help reduce pain and irritation.
References
1. Pfizer, [Revised on Jun 2020] [Accessed on 27th Sep 2022], https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=2293 2. KD Tripathi, Drugs Affecting Coagulation, Bleeding and Thrombosis, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 659-681.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should not take Dalteparin injection?
Dalteparin is not recommended for people suffering from active major bleeding, history of hypersensitivity to Dalteparin, heparin, benzyl alcohol, rubber or latex. Dalteparin is also not recommended for people with history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in the past hundred days.
What should you not take with Dalteparin injection?
It is not recommended to take heparin, pain killers, aspirin or other low molecular weight heparin while on this treatment. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications or herbal supplements.
Is it safe to undergo surgery while on treatment with Dalteparin?
It is not recommended to undergo surgery while on treatment with Dalteparin due to high risk of bleeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you are about to undergo surgery or dental procedure anytime soon.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while on treatment with Dalteparin Injection?
Avoid drinking alcohol while on treatment with Dalteparin as alcohol increases your risk of bleeding.
When should you report to the doctor?
Contact your physician immediately if you experience severe allergic reactions or signs of bleeding like bleeding gums, nosebleeds, unusual bruising, black or tarry stools.
How is Dalteparin Injection administered?
Dalteparin Injection will be administered by your healthcare provider through subcutaneous route.
How to store Dalteparin Injection?
Store Dalteparin Injection at 20-25ËC in a controlled room temperature. Keep it in the original carton until it is ready to use.