Low Molecular Weight Heparins (LMWH) - Key Points

Overview

• Low molecular weight heparins are derived from heparin.
• They are safer than normal heparin due to lower risk of bleeding.
• Used as blood thinners to prevent blood clots.
• More predictable in reaction, requiring less monitoring compared to normal heparin.

Drug Names

• Enoxaparin (Lovenox): Remembered through the mnemonic eggnog.
• Fondaparinux: Remembered through the mnemonic fondue. Note it's not technically an LMWH but works similarly.
• Dalteparin: Remembered using the mnemonic doll.

Clinical Uses

• Prevent blood clot formation, especially in post-surgery patients.
• Commonly used for patients at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to limited mobility.

Mechanism of Action

• Act as blood thinners, preventing blood from clotting.
• Derived from heparin but more synthetically engineered.

Side Effects

• Lower Platelets (Thrombocytopenia): Remembered through the mnemonic falling plates.
  • Can cause quick drops in platelet counts known as heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
  • Less common than with normal heparin.
• Bleeding: Expected side effect as the blood is less able to clot.
  • Watch for signs and symptoms of severe bleeding.

Recap

• LMWH includes enoxaparin, fondaparinux, and dalteparin.
• Used to prevent blood clots, particularly in post-surgery patients.
• Considered safer than unfractionated heparin (normal heparin).
• Side effects include thrombocytopenia and bleeding.

Additional Resources

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• Access further resources through provided links for interactive review images and fact lists.