Dalteparin (Fragmin) For Venous Thromboembolism
Dalteparin sodium injection (Fragmin, Eisai/Pfizer) is now approved for the extended treatment of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) (proximal deep vein thrombosis [DVT]), or pulmonary embolism (PE) to reduce the recurrence of VTE in patients with cancer. VTE is a common medical complication in immobilized patients.
During a six-month period, nearly twice as many patients treated with generic warfarin (Coumadin medication, Bristol-Myers Squibb) experienced at least one episode of DVT or PE, compared with those receiving dalteparin once daily. At the end of the study, mortality rates were similar between the groups.
In the U.S., dalteparin is also indicated for preventing DVT and ischemic complications resulting from unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction when used with aspirin.
This product cannot be used interchangeably with unfractionated heparin or other low-molecular-weight heparins.
