ENOXAPARIN
Background and Date of Approval
Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant medication which was approved for its medical use on 31st December 1998.
Uses
Enoxaparin Injection has been developed to treat deep vein thrombosis with or without pulmonary embolism. 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, Enoxaparin prevents further heart complications.
How is it administered?
A healthcare professional will administer Enoxaparin injection to the patients into their veins. Enoxaparin is available as single dose prefilled syringes in the doses 100 mg per ml and 150 mg per ml. the hundred mg per ml dose is available in the concentrations of 30 MG per 0.3 ml, 40 MG per 0.4 ml, 60mg/0.6ml, 80mg/0.8ml, 100mg/1ml, 300mg/3ml. 150mg/ml dose is available in the concentrations of 120mg/0.8ml and 150mg/1ml.
Side Effects
Like all medicines, Enoxaparin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common Side Effects of Enoxaparin are: Bleeding Pink patches at the injection site Skin rash Itchy red skin Bruising or pain at the injection site Decreased red blood cell count High platelet counts Headache Rare Side Effects of Enoxaparin are: Severe allergic reactions like rash, breathing problems, swelling of lips, face, or throat Increased potassium levels (especially in people with kidney problems or diabetes) Increased white blood cells Hair loss Osteoporosis Tingling, numbness, and muscular weakness after spinal puncture or anaesthetic Loss of bladder or bowel control
Warnings
Increased risk of bleeding : Look for signs of bleeding and regularly check for any complications. Risk of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) : Enoxaparin may cause a decrease in platelets, which could lead to blood clots. Close monitoring is necessary. Low platelet count : Regularly check platelet levels to make sure they remain normal. Do not switch with other heparins : Do not replace Enoxaparin with heparin or other similar medicines, as they are not the same. Higher risk of blood clots in pregnant women with mechanical heart valves : Pregnant women with artificial heart valves may have a higher risk of blood clots. Monitor closely and adjust the dose if needed. Allergies : Inform your physician if you are allergic to Enoxaparin sodium, heparin, benzyl alcohol, or pork products before taking this injection.
Precautions
When using Enoxaparin, monitor kidney function closely in individuals with renal impairment, as the drug may accumulate in those with kidney problems. Check regularly for signs of bleeding, especially in individuals with conditions that increase bleeding risk. Avoid using Enoxaparin in patients who have recently had spinal or epidural procedures. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor, as Enoxaparin may require dose adjustments. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Enoxaparin sodium, heparin, benzyl alcohol, or pork products.
Word of Advice
Enoxaparin can cause bleeding and other undesirable side effects, so it is advised to get adequate rest during treatment and eat a well-balanced diet. If you experience dizziness or any visual disturbances, avoid driving or operating machinery. Apply a cool compress at the injection site to reduce pain and irritation. It is also good if Enoxaparin is administered at the same time every day to maintain consistent levels in your body.
References
Rovi Biotech Limited, European Medicine Consortium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2018], Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9330.pdf [Accessed on 27th May 2023]. Sanofi, [Revised on Apr 2022] [Accessed on 27th May 2023], https://products.sanofi.us/lovenox/lovenox.pdf Clexane® syringes 100MG/ML solution for Injection - HPRA. [Revised on May 2022], Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/7900ad74-3eb7-41a2-be4c-3b757cb841ec.pdf [Accessed on 27th May 2023]. KD Tripathi, Drugs Affecting Coagulation, Bleeding and Thrombosis, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 659-681. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/inhixa-epar-product-information_en.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should not take Enoxaparin injection?
Enoxaparin is not recommended for people suffering from active major bleeding or a history of hypersensitivity to Enoxaparin, heparin, Benzyl alcohol, or pork products. This drug is also not advised for people with a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in the past hundred days.
What should you not take with Enoxaparin injection?
Suppose you are taking heparin or low molecular weight. Heparin while on this treatment is not recommended. Tell your healthcare provider about taking other medications or herbal supplements
Is there any most common side effects of Enoxaparin injection?
The most common adverse reactions of Enoxaparin injection are bleeding, anemia, thrombocytopenia, diarrhea, nausea, fever, edema, breathlessness, confusion, and pain at the injection site.
Is it safe for women of reproductive potential to use Enoxaparin Injection?
Enoxaparin Injection is probably unsafe for pregnant women and their fetuses. While it is unknown if the treatment interferes with breastfeeding, it is advisable to inform your doctor before starting Enoxaparin treatment if you suspect pregnancy, breastfeeding, or planning to have a baby.
When should you report to the doctor?
Contact your physician straightly if you experience severe allergic reactions like the spelling of lips, tongue, throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, unexplained swelling, painful Rash, chest pain, or blood in the cough during the treatment with Enoxaparin Injection.