Clexane (Enoxaparin)

[laurabuk]

Hi All,

I've just started a hospital placement this week, today was my first day on a ward with a Pharmacist: a lot of the patients, particularly the elderly and the surgical wards were being prescribed Clexane prophylatically - apparently most patients who are admitted for more than a few days are prescribed this for 'protection' against the development of clots. I wanted to know is this a common thing or is it just special to the Trust I am working in? Any information on this would be great, as I've never come across this drug before.

Laura

[johannes]

It's a common thing. Here everyone gets it.
Some patients do not tolerate heparin, they devellop a HAT or HIT. For those Argatroban can be used for example.
Some have renal problems and better get adjustable unfractionated heparin.

[johnep]

Clexane, Fragmin and Innohep are all low molecular weight heparins which have a very long half life compared to standard heparin. heparin has to be given continously IV and therefore means pt has to be admitted, whereas LMW heps can be given SC and even self administerd. Also reduced is the risk associated with IV such as MRSA etc.
johnep

[Steve G]

The LMWH have predictable pharmacokinetics, therefore you can dose according to weight. When I did my hospital experience they had tables everywhere with what dose of fragmin to use for which weight.

[laurabuk]

Hi!

Thanks thats great - this is my first hospital placement, so I've never come across this before.

Laura