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Dalteparin 💊
ℹ️ About
Always check the BNF link here 📖 for the most up-to-date prescribing advice.
- Dalteparin is a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) widely used in VTE prevention and treatment, and in acute coronary syndromes.
⚙️ Mode of Action
- Potentiates antithrombin III, leading to inhibition of Factor Xa and to a lesser degree Factor IIa (thrombin).
- Results in reduced fibrin formation → anticoagulant effect 🩸.
💊 Indications & Dose
| Indication | Dose / Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|
| VTE prophylaxis (surgery) | 2500 units SC 1–2 h pre-op, then 2500 units SC OD | SC |
| VTE prophylaxis (medical patients) | 5000 units SC OD | SC |
| NSTEMI / Unstable angina | 120 units/kg SC BD (max 10,000 units BD) for up to 8 days | SC |
| PE / DVT (treatment) | 200 units/kg SC OD (max 18,000 units per dose) | SC |
💡 For cancer-associated thrombosis, extended LMWH therapy (often 6 months or more) is commonly recommended.
⚠️ Interactions
- Increased bleeding risk with NSAIDs, antiplatelets, anticoagulants, SSRIs.
🔎 Cautions
- Renal or hepatic impairment - accumulation risk, especially in renal failure 🧪.
- Monitor potassium - risk of hyperkalaemia.
- Use with caution in elderly and low body weight patients.
🚫 Contraindications
- Active bleeding or bleeding disorders.
- Severe uncontrolled hypertension.
- History of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).
- Recent trauma, surgery involving CNS, eyes, or ears.
❗ Side Effects
- Haemorrhage (major risk) 🩸.
- Thrombocytopenia, including HIT (rare but serious).
- Hyperkalaemia ⚡.
- Pain or bruising at injection site.
- Osteoporosis with long-term use.
📚 References
- BNF - Dalteparin
- ESC / ACCP guidelines on VTE prevention & treatment
📝 Revisions
- Expanded dosing indications; added cautions and long-term side effects.
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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