Enoxaparin is an anticoagulant medication which was approved for its medical use on 31st December 1998.

Enoxaparin Injection has been developed to treat deep vein thrombosis with or without pulmonary embolism. It also prevents the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis in abdominal surgery, hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery and in people with severe movement restriction. In patients with unstable angina and non-Q wave myocardial infarction, Enoxaparin prevents further heart complications.

A healthcare professional will administer Enoxaparin injection to the patients into their veins. Enoxaparin is available as single dose prefilled syringes in the doses 100 mg per ml and 150 mg per ml. the hundred mg per ml dose is available in the concentrations of 30 MG per 0.3 ml, 40 MG per 0.4 ml, 60mg/0.6ml, 80mg/0.8ml, 100mg/1ml, 300mg/3ml. 150mg/ml dose is available in the concentrations of 120mg/0.8ml and 150mg/1ml.

Like all medicines, Enoxaparin can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Common Side Effects of Enoxaparin are:

• Bleeding
• Pink patches at the injection site
• Skin rash 
• Itchy red skin
• Bruising or pain at the injection site
• Decreased red blood cell count
• High platelet counts
• Headache

Rare Side Effects of Enoxaparin are:

• Severe allergic reactions like rash, breathing problems, swelling of lips, face, or throat
• Increased potassium levels (especially in people with kidney problems or diabetes)
• Increased white blood cells
• Hair loss
• Osteoporosis 
• Tingling, numbness, and muscular weakness after spinal puncture or anaesthetic
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Increased risk of bleeding: Look for signs of bleeding and regularly check for any complications.
• Risk of Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT): Enoxaparin may cause a decrease in platelets, which could lead to blood clots. Close monitoring is necessary.
• Low platelet count: Regularly check platelet levels to make sure they remain normal.
• Do not switch with other heparins: Do not replace Enoxaparin with heparin or other similar medicines, as they are not the same.
• Higher risk of blood clots in pregnant women with mechanical heart valves: Pregnant women with artificial heart valves may have a higher risk of blood clots. Monitor closely and adjust the dose if needed.
• Allergies: Inform your physician if you are allergic to Enoxaparin sodium, heparin, benzyl alcohol, or pork products before taking this injection.

When using Enoxaparin, monitor kidney function closely in individuals with renal impairment, as the drug may accumulate in those with kidney problems. Check regularly for signs of bleeding, especially in individuals with conditions that increase bleeding risk. Avoid using Enoxaparin in patients who have recently had spinal or epidural procedures. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor, as Enoxaparin may require dose adjustments. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Enoxaparin sodium, heparin, benzyl alcohol, or pork products.

Enoxaparin can cause bleeding and other undesirable side effects, so it is advised to get adequate rest during treatment and eat a well-balanced diet. If you experience dizziness or any visual disturbances, avoid driving or operating machinery. Apply a cool compress at the injection site to reduce pain and irritation. It is also good if Enoxaparin is administered at the same time every day to maintain consistent levels in your body.

1. Rovi Biotech Limited, European Medicine Consortium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2018], Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.9330.pdf [Accessed on 27th May 2023].
2. Sanofi, [Revised on Apr 2022] [Accessed on 27th May 2023], https://products.sanofi.us/lovenox/lovenox.pdf
3. Clexane® syringes 100MG/ML solution for Injection - HPRA. [Revised on May 2022], Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/7900ad74-3eb7-41a2-be4c-3b757cb841ec.pdf [Accessed on 27th May 2023].
4. KD Tripathi, Drugs Affecting Coagulation, Bleeding and Thrombosis, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 659-681.
5. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/inhixa-epar-product-information_en.pdf

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.