FOCUS ON ENOXAPARIN

Enoxaparin is a low molecular weight heparin that has recently receive d approval for use in the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis associat ed with hip surgery. Compared with unfractionated heparin, enoxaparin has decreased antithrombin activity but exerts a greater effect on oth er anticoagulant factors such as Xa. In randomized, double-blind trial s, enoxaparin has been shown to be more effective than placebo and a f ixed-dose heparin regimen in the prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis f ollowing elective hip surgery. Major bleeding complications appear to be no more frequent than with unfractionated heparin treatment. The pr actical advantages of enoxaparin-such as a fixed-dose subcutaneous adm inistration and lack of need for hematologic monitoring-make it an att ractive prophylactic agent for deep vein thrombosis.