Indications 

Lovenox is a prescribed medication used to prevent blood clot formation for individuals confined to bed due to extended illness or those having a knee or hip replacement or abdominal surgery. 

Moreover, Lovenox is used in conjunction with aspirin to mitigate complications from angina and heart attacks, and in combination with warfarin to treat leg blood clots. 

As an anticoagulant “blood thinner” medication, Lovenox works by reducing the activity of clotting proteins in the blood, promoting smooth blood flow. 

Uses and Dosage 

Lovenox is available in a vial for subcutaneous injection or intravenous infusion. Guidance on self-administration may be provided by a healthcare professional. 

Before the initial use and with each prescription refill of Lovenox, carefully read the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Should you have any inquiries or need further information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

The dosage and duration of Lovenox treatment can differ for each person, dependent on medical conditions, treatment response, and occasionally age and weight for specific conditions. 

Typically, this medication is administered once or twice a day as prescribed by the doctor. 

Your healthcare provider will demonstrate the appropriate body areas for Lovenox injection. Rotate the injection site with each administration and avoid injecting into the same spot twice in a row. 

Before use, visually inspect the vial for particles or discoloration. Do not use the liquid if either is observed. 

Adhere strictly to the instructions on how to administer Lovenox and use it regularly at the same times each day to achieve optimal results. Do not change the prescribed dosage, frequency, or duration of use without your doctor’s approval. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, diarrhea 
• Anemia 
• Confusion 
• Pain, bruising, redness, or irritation at the injection site 

Inform your doctor if these common side effects continue or worsen. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Uncontrollable or abnormal bleeding 
• Easy bruising, red or purple spots under the skin 
• Nosebleeds, bleeding gums 
• Unusual vaginal bleeding, blood in urine or stools 
• Coughing up blood or vomiting coffee ground-like material 
• Symptoms of brain bleeding:  
  • Sudden weakness 
  • Severe headache 
  • Speech or vision problems 
• Low red blood cell (anemia) signs:  
  • Pale skin 
  • Fatigue 
  • Dizziness 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Cold extremities 

Call your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects are experienced. 

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you experience signs of a spinal blood clot, such as: 

• Lower body back pain 
• Numbness 
• Muscle weakness 
• Loss of bladder or bowel control 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Lovenox can occur. Seek immediate medical help if any of the following symptoms manifest: 

• Hives 
• Itching or burning skin 
• Trouble breathing 
• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

This list does not include all potential side effects of Lovenox. Inform your doctor if you experience any effects not mentioned here. 

Cautions 

Lovenox is not meant to be administered intramuscularly. 

Before starting treatment with Lovenox, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to enoxaparin or any of its inactive ingredients. 

To ensure Lovenox is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Artificial heart valve(s) 
• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Bleeding/blood problems (e.g., low platelet counts) 
• Low platelet counts after prior heparin treatment 
• Stroke 
• High blood pressure 
• Specific eye issues (diabetic retinopathy) 
• Certain stomach/intestinal problems (active or recent ulcers) 
• Recent spinal procedure or puncture 
• Spine problems (such as spinal deformity) 
• Recent eye/brain/spinal cord surgery 

Lovenox may have interactions with mifepristone. To minimize the potential for these interactions, disclose all current and recent medication use, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as vitamins and herbal supplements, to your doctor. 

If Lovenox is prescribed in combination with other medications possessing blood-thinning or anti-platelet properties like aspirin, clopidogrel, or warfarin, close monitoring is advised to reduce the risk of bleeding. 

Thoroughly review all prescription and over-the-counter medication labels, as certain pain relievers/fever reducers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin) might heighten bleeding risk or anti-platelet effects when taken with Lovenox. 

If advised by your doctor to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (typically 81-162 milligrams per day), continue unless otherwise directed. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information. 

Throughout Lovenox treatment, avoid activities that could heighten the risk of bleeding or injury. Take special precautions to prevent bleeding when shaving or brushing your teeth. 

The use of Lovenox during pregnancy should be limited to essential cases. Discuss with your healthcare provider the risks and benefits of this medication before proceeding with its use. 

Consult your doctor before nursing when using Lovenox, as the transfer of enoxaparin into breast milk is uncertain.