Enoxaparin Sodium is a blood-thinning medicine. This medicine is used to treat deep vein thrombosis (also known as DVT or blood clots in the leg veins) and pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs).
This medicine also prevents the formation of blood clots in the tubing during kidney dialysis and in certain types of heart disease.
Use Enoxaparin Sodium exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not inject more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the thigh, upper arm or abdomen area).
Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. New injection sites should be at least 1.5 inches away from the previous injection site. Do not inject near the navel (belly button).
If you need help with understanding the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Throw away the used needle after each injection. Needles must not be re-used. Follow your doctor's instructions on how to dispose these used injections.
It may be necessary for you to use Enoxaparin Sodium for a long time or even for a few years. Your doctor will advise how long you need to use this medicine.
Inject the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often miss your scheduled injection, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
- bleeding disorders or problems with blood clotting
- stomach ulcers
- bacterial infection in your heart
- history of low platelet count during treatment with heparin or other medicines similar to Enoxaparin Sodium
as Enoxaparin Sodium may not be suitable for you.
If you are going for a procedure where you have to undergo spinal or epidural anaesthesia, inform your doctor that you are using Enoxaparin Sodium.
Inform your doctor if you have:
- kidney disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- obesity
- weight less than 45 kg (women) or 57 kg (men)
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not participate in activities in which you may fall or get injured such as contact sports. Alert your doctor if you get any unusual bruising (large bruises or several bruises) or bleeding that takes a long time to stop (for example, too much bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth).
Take special care when shaving or handling sharp objects to avoid cutting yourself. Use a soft toothbrush when brushing your teeth to reduce the risk of gum bleeding.
For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular blood tests to check your body's response to the medicine. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have blood tests.
If you are going for an operation, including minor operations and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are being treated with Enoxaparin Sodium.
Do not switch to another brand of Enoxaparin Sodium or to other medicines similar to this medicine, such as tinzaparin, nadroparin or dalteparin unless your doctor has instructed you to do so.
Enoxaparin Sodium may cause pain, bruising and irritation at the site of injection.
This medicine may cause you to bleed more easily. Alert your doctor if you get any unusual bruising (large bruises or several bruises especially if they appear by themselves or if they cover a large area), or bleeding that takes a long time to stop (for example, too much bleeding when you floss or brush your teeth). Alert your doctor if you notice blood in your urine, bowel movements or if you get a nose bleed.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- other blood-thinning medicines e.g. warfarin, ticlopidine, clopidogrel, dipyridamole
- medicines for pain and inflammation (NSAIDs) e.g. aspirin, ketorolac
- sulfinpyrazone (medicine for gout)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Enoxaparin Sodium.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store Enoxaparin in a cool place. Do not store above 25°C. Do not refrigerate. Do not allow to freeze. Once frozen, this medicine is no longer effective and should not be used.
Keep out of reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.