Description
IndicationsÂ
Fragmin is an injected medication used to thin the blood and prevent blood clots, or to treat existing blood clots. By preventing the formation of blood clots, Fragmin helps to reduce the risk of conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and other clotting-related complications.Â
Fragmin Pre-Filled Syringe works by containing the medication dalteparin sodium, which is a low molecular weight heparin. Dalteparin works to prevent blood clots by inhibiting the activity of thrombin, a protein involved in blood clotting.Â
Once injected, Fragmin works by binding to antithrombin III, a natural substance in the body that helps to regulate blood clotting. This binding enhances the inhibitory effect of antithrombin III on clotting factors, such as thrombin and factor Xa, leading to a reduced ability of the blood to form clots.Â
Use and DosageÂ
Fragmin is available in a pre-filled syringe form, which makes it convenient and easy to administer. The pre-filled syringe of Fragmin comes with a safety needle device, ensuring proper and safe injection. The syringe is designed to deliver the appropriate dosage of Fragmin, as prescribed by the healthcare professional. The syringe is ready to use, eliminating the need for any additional preparation or mixing. Fragmin is available in different dosage strengths, such as 2,500 IU and 10,000 IU. Â
To administer Fragmin using the pre-filled syringe, you need to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. Generally, Fragmin is injected under the skin into the fatty area of the body. The recommended injection sites include the abdomen, thighs, or upper arms. Change the injection site each day to avoid complications such as skin scars or lumps.Â
Before injecting Fragmin, make sure to wash your hands and clean the injection site with soap and water. Remove the top of the Fragmin pack and move the orange needle-trap down. Carefully remove the grey needle cap by pulling it. Read the Fragmin leaflet included in the Fragmin box before injecting the medicine. Remember to inject Fragmin at the same time every day for the duration of your treatment. Follow the prescribed dosage and treatment schedule recommended by your healthcare professional.Â
Side EffectsÂ
Common Side Effects Â
- BleedingÂ
- BruisingÂ
- Chest painÂ
- ChillsÂ
- DizzinessÂ
- Fainting, or swelling in your hands or feetÂ
- FeverÂ
- HeadacheÂ
- Injection site reactions (pain, redness, bruising, swelling)Â
- ItchingÂ
- NauseaÂ
- Rapid breathingÂ
- RashÂ
- Shortness of breathÂ
- Unusual tiredness or weaknessÂ
- VomitingÂ
- WeaknessÂ
Serious Side EffectsÂ
- Easy bruising or bleedingÂ
- Pain, redness, irritation, bruising, or swelling where the medicine was injectedÂ
- Unusual or prolonged bleeding Â
- Unusual or easy bruising Â
- Purple or red pinpoints under your skinÂ
- Dark urine Â
- Black or bloody stools Â
- Severe headache Â
- Confusion Â
- Trouble concentratingÂ
- Vision changes Â
- Unusual dizziness Â
- Pale skinÂ
- Shortness of breathÂ
- Trouble breathingÂ
- Rapid heart rateÂ
- LightheartednessÂ
- Fainting Â
- Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee groundsÂ
- Loss of movement in any part of your bodyÂ
- Problems with speech vision or balance Â
- SeizuresÂ
- Sudden weaknessÂ
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness (especially in your legs and feet)Â
CautionsÂ
- Bleeding Risk: Fragmin is an anticoagulant medication, which means it can increase the risk of bleeding. Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of bleeding disorders, recent surgery or injury, gastrointestinal ulcers, or other conditions that may increase the risk of bleeding.Â
- Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT): Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a rare but potentially serious condition where Fragmin can cause a decrease in platelet count and potentially lead to blood clotting. Patients should be monitored for any signs of HIT, such as unexplained bruising, bleeding, or the development of new blood clots.Â
- Renal Impairment: Fragmin should be used with caution in patients with impaired kidney function. Dosing adjustments may be necessary, as the clearance of Fragmin may be reduced in these patients.Â
- Hypersensitivity: Fragmin should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to dalteparin or other heparin products.Â
- Spinal/Epidural Hematoma: Fragmin should be used with caution in patients receiving spinal or epidural anesthesia or undergoing spinal puncture. This is because Fragmin can increase the risk of spinal or epidural hematoma, which may result in paralysis.Â
- Drug Interactions: Fragmin may interact with other medications, such as antiplatelet drugs, anticoagulants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These interactions may increase the risk of bleeding or affect the efficacy of Fragmin. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.Â
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Fragmin should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The potential benefits and risks should be evaluated by the healthcare provider.Â
- Liver Impairment: Fragmin should be used with caution in patients with impaired liver function. Dosing adjustments may be necessary as hepatic impairment can affect the clearance of Fragmin from the body.Â
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Fragmin should be used with caution in patients with a history of hemorrhagic stroke, as it may increase the risk of bleeding in the brain.Â
- Eye or Spinal Surgery: Fragmin should be used with caution in patients who have recently undergone eye or spinal surgery, as it may increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.Â
- Thrombocytopenia: Fragmin should be used with caution in patients with a history of thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) or any other blood disorders. Regular monitoring of platelet count may be necessary.Â
- Elderly Patients: Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the effects of Fragmin, including an increased risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments and close monitoring may be required.Â
- Children: Fragmin Pre-Filled Syringe is not recommended for use in children without specific medical guidance and dosing instructions from a pediatrician.Â
- Injection Site Reactions: Fragmin is administered via subcutaneous injection, and injection site reactions such as pain, redness, swelling, or irritation may occur. If these reactions are severe or persistent, consult with a healthcare professional.Â
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood tests, including complete blood count and coagulation parameters, may be necessary during Fragmin therapy to ensure appropriate dosing and minimize the risk of complications. Â