Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Dalteparin is used in combination with aspirin to prevent serious or life-threatening complications from angina (chest pain) and heart attacks. It is also used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot typically occurring in the leg, which can lead to pulmonary embolism (PE), a blood clot in the lung. Dalteparin belongs to a class of medications called anticoagulants (blood thinners) and works by reducing the blood’s ability to clot.
Uses and Dosage
This medication is administered by injection under the skin as directed by your doctor, typically once or twice daily. Do not inject it into a muscle.
The dosage and duration of treatment depend on your medical condition and response to treatment, and for some conditions, it may also be based on your weight. For certain conditions, a healthcare professional may administer this medication by injection into a vein, as directed by your doctor.
If you are using this medication at home, make sure to learn all the preparation and usage instructions from your healthcare professional and the product package. Before use, visually inspect the product for particles or discoloration; do not use it if either is present. This medication should not be mixed with or added to any other medication.
Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol and rotate the injection site each time to reduce the risk of injury under the skin. To minimize bruising, avoid rubbing the injection site after the injection.
Learn how to store and safely discard medical supplies.
To prevent blood clots due to surgery, your doctor may instruct you to start using this medication before or after surgery and continue for several days. Follow your doctor’s directions closely.
Use this medication regularly to achieve the best results. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nosebleeds
- redness, pain, bruising, or sores at the injection site
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- dark red spots under the skin or in the mouth
- vomiting or spitting up blood or brown material that resembles coffee grounds
- bloody or black, tarry stools
- blood in urine
- red or dark-brown urine
- excessive menstrual bleeding
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- hives, rash
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
Caution
- Before using dalteparin, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or to heparins or pork products, or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as benzyl alcohol) that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Before starting this medication, provide your doctor or pharmacist with your medical history, particularly if you have a history of serious active bleeding, artificial heart valves, bleeding or blood disorders, certain eye problems (hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy), high blood pressure, heart infection, kidney disease, liver disease, low platelet counts after previous heparin treatment, specific stomach/intestinal issues, stroke, recent spinal procedures or punctures, spine problems, or recent eye/brain/spinal cord surgery.
- Limit alcohol consumption while using this drug, as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
- To reduce the risk of cuts, bruises, or injuries, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail clippers, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly bleeding.
- During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Fragmin Pre-Filled Syringe is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Fragmin Pre-Filled Syringe injection:
- 2500 IU / 0.2 mL
- 5000 IU / 0.2 mL
- 7500 IU / 0.3 mL
- 10000 IU / 0.4 mL
- 12500 IU / 0.5 mL
- 15000 IU / 0.6 mL
- 18000 IU / 0.72 mL
FAQ
Do Fragmin injections hurt?
About 5 out of 100 people in clinical studies reported having pain at the Fragmin injection site. Rotate the site where you inject Fragmin each time to help prevent pain and bruising.
Is Fragmin the same as heparin?
Fragmin belongs to a class of anticoagulants called low molecular weight heparins (LMWH). It works similar to heparin because it thins your blood to prevent blood clots. Since it’s a LMWH, it has a different structure so it targets a more specific type of clotting protein. When given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, Fragmin is absorbed better, lasts longer, and requires fewer injections per day.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/fragmin/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/dalteparin-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20063314?
- https://www.rxlist.com/fragmin-drug.htm
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/dalteparin-ampules-subcutaneous-or-intravenous-injection
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a696006.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/dalteparin-ampules-prefilled-syringes-and-single-dose-vials.html
