LMWH


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Related to LMWH: Fondaparinux

LMWH

abbreviation for low-molecular-weight heparin.

LMWH

Abbreviation for low molecular weight heparin.

heparin

(hep'a-rin) [ hepar + -in]
A parenteral anticoagulant drug with a faster onset than warfarin or its derivatives. It is composed of polysaccharides that inhibit coagulation by forming an antithrombin that prevents conversion of prothrombin to thrombin and by preventing liberation of thromboplastin from platelets. Because heparin is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, it is usually administered intravenously or subcutaneously as a sodium or calcium salt.

Uses

Heparin is used as an anticoagulant to prevent and treat thrombosis and embolism. It is an important agent in the management of acute coronary syndromes (e.g., unstable angina pectoris or acute myocardial infarction). Because heparin compounds are too large to cross the placental barrier, they are the preferred anticoagulants in pregnant women. The antagonist for an overdose is protamine sulfate. The most common side effect of heparin is abnormal bleeding.

heparin lock

A device attached to an intravenous catheter to prevent it from clotting. It is used for intermittent administration of fluids or medication. See: heparin lock flush solution; venous access device

low molecular weight heparin

Abbreviation: LMWH
The most bioavailable fraction of heparin. It has a more precise anticoagulant effect than unfractionated heparins and is used to prevent and treat deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and acute coronary syndromes.

CAUTION!

It should be used selectively, if at all, in patients with reduced kidney function.

heparitin sulfate

A sulfurated mucopolysaccharide that accumulates in the connective tissue in abnormal amounts in some mucopolysaccharidoses.
See: mucopolysaccharidosis

low molecular weight heparin

Abbreviation: LMWH
The most bioavailable fraction of heparin. It has a more precise anticoagulant effect than unfractionated heparins and is used to prevent and treat deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and acute coronary syndromes.

CAUTION!

It should be used selectively, if at all, in patients with reduced kidney function.
See also: heparin
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References in periodicals archive ?
Few orthopaedic units are currently aware of the risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia when prescribing LMWH.
The monitoring of heparin induced thrombocytopenia following surgery: an audit and international survey
The article critiques by the MSRUT cited use of Unna boots, compression stockings in various lengths and degrees of mmHG, oral anticoagulants, or LMWH injections alone or in combination.
Influence of bedrest or ambulation in the clinical treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis on patient outcomes: a review and synthesis of the literature
Unfractionated heparin versus low molecular weight heparin UFH LMWH Molecular weight 3 000 - 30 000 Da Mean 5 000 Da Mechanism of action Increases antithrombin Greater anti-Xa: IIa activity > anti-Xa activity Mode of IVI or SC SC only administration Therapeutic dose Bolus then IVI Fixed dose according infusion with to body weight monitoring of aPTT Monitoring aPTT Usually not necessary; anti-Xa levels needed in renal failure, severe obesity, pregnancy Reversal Reversed with IVI Only partially protamine sulphate reversible with prolamine Heparin-induced 3-5% <1% thrombocytopenia in those receiving therapy for [grater than or equal to] 5 days IVI = intravenous injection; SC = subcutaneous; aPTT = activated partial thromboplastin tine.
Heparin is a widely used drug--just about any health worker will deal with patients on the drug
Home therapy of venous thrombosis with long-term LMWH versus usual care: patient satisfaction and post-thrombotic syndrome.
EXTENSIVE DEEP VENOUS THROMBOSIS IN A YOUNG MALE PATIENT AS THE FIRST MANIFESTATION OF A RARE VENOUS ANOMALY--INFERIOR VENA CAVA DUPLICATION: CASE REPORT
LMWH could suppress the activation of thrombin via suppressing coagulation active factor X.
Resveratrol Reduces the Incidence of Portal Vein System Thrombosis after Splenectomy in a Rat Fibrosis Model
LMWH offers definite advantages over UFH because of its longer plasma half-life, dose-dependent clearance (resulting in a more predictable anticoagulant response), improved side-effect profile and less frequent monitoring requirements (grade 1B).
Recommendations for the anticoagulation of pregnant patients with mechanical heart valves
There are no trials comparing the different formulations of LMWH.
Gynecologic oncology consult: VTE and gynecologic malignancy
Conclusion: Thromboprophylaxis with LMWH resulted in a improved live-birth rate in patient with 2 or more consecutive unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss.
Low molecular weight heparin in unexplained recurrent miscarriage
The results indicated that both detection types are suitable and acceptable for the analysis of LMWHs.
Molecular weight determination of LMWH SEC/MALS vs. SEC/UV-RI
He was anticoagulated with LMWH and dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel and discharged 7 days after admission.
Bilateral blunt carotid artery injury: a case report and review of the literature
0 ml/kg), LMWH 150 U/kg and ceftriaxone (30 mg/kg) after CLP.
Low molecular weight heparin prevents CLP-Induced acute lung injury in rats by anti-inflammatory coagulation
For these reasons, placement of pneumatic compression devices and/or administration of LMWH is recommended before cesarean delivery for all women not already receiving chemoprophylaxis.
Stop using antiembolism stockings to prevent DVT. Start using prophylactic LMWH and/or pneumatic compression devices to prevent VTE

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