Prescription Required
Description
Fragmin is an injected medication made up of a heparin anticoagulant called dalteparin. We carry the brand choice of this product in 10000IU/1ml and 5000IU/0.2mL.
Fragmin (dalteparin) is used for the prevention of blood clots. A blood clot is when the blood chemically changes from a liquid to a gel-like state. Blood clots are necessary in humans as they protect us from losing too much blood when we are injured however if a blood clot forms in one of your veins, it can become very dangerous and potentially fatal if it doesn’t dissolve. Certain blood clots have certain names; blood clots in cancer patients are called venous thromboembolism (VTE) and blood clots that eventually end up in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) are called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), both of which Fragmin is effective in treating. Additionally, this medication can be used in combination with Aspirin to prevent blood vessel complications in people with certain types of Angina or heart attack.
Fragmin (dalteparin) is effective in preventing blood clots as it helps keep your blood flowing in a smoothly manner due to the action of lowering clotting proteins from acting on the blood.
Directions
Before injecting
Fragmin is administered by being injected under the skin; it is suggested you make an appointment with a healthcare professional to show you how to correctly inject this medication. If you prepare an injection, you must use it at that time; do not save a prepared injection for later or if the color has changed or has particles in it. Do not inject into the same place twice; ensure each injection has a new injection site. Do not mix other medication into the injection. During step 3, you may notice an air bubble in the syringe; this is normal.
- Sit in a comfortable position where you are insight of your tummy.
- With the syringe in hand, grasp the tip of the orange needle trap and bend it away from the syringe.
- Remove the grey rubber needle; avoid bending the needle
Injecting
- Gently pinch a fold of skin between the index finger and thumb.
- Insert the needle while holding it at a 90-degree angle and press the plunger to inject.
For DVP and VTE
DVT - Do this every day until the clotting is gone
VTE – Fragmin is often used for several months
Cautions
Do not inject into a muscle
Fragmin (dalteparin) should not be used in those who have active bleeding or a low level of platelets in the blood after testing positive for a certain antibody while using dalteparin.
This medication should not be used to treat unstable angina or heart attacks in patients undergoing epidural/neuraxial anesthesia. A very serious blood clot may occur in the spinal cord if you receive a spinal tap or epidural while on Fragmin, if this goes untreated, it could result in long-term or permanent paralysis. Watch for warning signs of this condition; see side effects.
This product may cause one to bleed more easily, your risk may be increase if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, stomach or intestinal bleeding or ulcers, recent brain, spine or eye surgery among other conditions.
It has not been established if this medication is safe for a pregnant woman to use; speak with your doctor about the risk it poses on your unborn baby before using Fragmin. It may also not be safe to breastfeed while using this product; speak with your doctor if this concerns you.
Side Effects
Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.
Common side effects of Fragmin (dalteparin) may include:
low platelet levels (bruising, bleeding); or pain, bruising, or swelling where the medicine was injected.
The above side effects should not alarm you.
Serious side effects of Fragmin (dalteparin) may include:
unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), bleeding from wounds or needle injections, any bleeding that will not stop; easy bruising, purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin; black or bloody stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; sudden weakness, severe headache, confusion, or problems with speech, vision, or balance; or trouble breathing.
If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.
Signs to watch for:
spinal blood clot: back pain, numbness or muscle weakness in your lower body, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
allergic reaction to Fragmin: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
FAQs
Can an overweight or underweight person use this medication?
The effectiveness and safety of Fragmin in those who weigh more than 120kg (265lbs) and those who weigh less than 46kg (101lbs) have not yet been established; discuss with your doctor before using this medication if you are over or under weight.
What factors lead to a high risk of developing a serious blood clot around your spinal cord?
You are more likely to develop this condition while using Fragmin if you also have a genetic spinal defect, a spinal cord injury, a spinal catheter (or recent removal of one), history of spinal taps or surgeries, if you are using medications like Advil or Aleve (NSAIDs) or blood thinners.
Do I have to inject this medicine at the same time every day?
Yes. You must take this medication at the same time every day for the duration of treatment. This is to ensure a consistent level of drugs stay in your system.
Where is the best place to inject this medication?
The suggested area would be the lower abdomen (lower stomach), but alternatively can be injected into the side of the thigh.
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