Low molecular weight heparin

In hematology, low molecular weight heparin is an anticoagulant that consists of "heparin fractions with a molecular weight usually between 4000 and 6000 kD. These low-molecular-weight fractions are effective antithrombotic agents. Their administration reduces the risk of hemorrhage, they have a longer half-life, and their platelet interactions are reduced in comparison to unfractionated heparin. They also provide an effective prophylaxis against postoperative major pulmonary embolism."

Selected low molecular weight heparins

	Prophylaxis dose	Full dose	Comments
Enoxiparin (Lovenox)	Either: 30 mg twice daily 40 mg once daily	Either: 1 mg/kg/dose every 12 hours 1.5 mg/kg once daily more information is at Enoxaparin
Dalteparin (Framin)	After loading, 2500 to 5000 int. units daily	150 int. units/kg up to 18,000 int. units) once daily dosing is complicated and more information is at DailyMed	If creatinine clearance is less then 30 mL/minute, monitor anti-Xa levels