Generic Name: Enoxaparin
Brand Name: Lovanox
Classification: Anticoagulant, low molecular weight Heparin
Uses:
- Acute and extended prophylaxis of deep-vein thrombosis
- With warfarin for in-patient treatment of DVT
- With aspirin to prevent ischemic complications of unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction
Actions:
- Half-life: 4.5 hr. after SC use
- Potentiates the actions of an endogenous inhibitor of blood coagulation known as antithrombin III
- Increases antithrombin III–mediated inhibition of the formation and activity of factor Xa, resulting to reduced thrombin generation
Contraindications:
- Intramuscular use
- Use with prosthetic valves due to possible valve thrombosis
- Hypersensitivity to heparin and enoxaparin
- Hypersensitivity to pork products
Special Concerns:
- When spinal/epidural puncture is used, people may develop hematoma
- Monitor neurological impairment and treat promptly
- Use with caution during pregnancy
Side-Effects:
- Hemorrhage
- Anemia
- Injection site hematoma
- Nausea
- Thrombocytopenia
- Fever
- Headache
- Edema
- Spinal hematoma
Dosage:
SC Only: 30mg q12h or 40 mg OD
Nursing Considerations:
- Consider dosage adjustment for clients with low weight (<45kg)
- Give only by deep SC while lying down
- Do not give IM
- Continue treatment until risk of DVT decreases
- Do not mix with other injections/infusions
- Discard any unused solution
- Assess for Heparin or pork product hypersensitivity
- Document baseline hematologic parameters, liver function, and coagulation studies
- Monitor VS and assess for signs of bleeding
- Client may self-inject if educated and if follow-up on out-patient basis is needed
- Alternate administration between the left and right anterolateral and posterolateral abdominal wall
- Do not rub injection site
- May experience mild discomfort, irritation, hematoma at injection site
- Report unusual bleeding, or weakness
- Practice reliable contraception
- Avoid OTC agents containing aspirin
- Use an electronic razor to shave
