Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: FRAGMIN versus HEPARIN SODIUM 20 000 UNITS IN DEXTROSE 5.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: FRAGMIN versus HEPARIN SODIUM 20 000 UNITS IN DEXTROSE 5.
FRAGMIN vs HEPARIN SODIUM 20,000 UNITS IN DEXTROSE 5%
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
Fragmin (dalteparin) is a low molecular weight heparin that binds to antithrombin III, potentiating its inhibition of factor Xa and, to a lesser extent, thrombin, thereby preventing thrombus formation.
Heparin sodium binds to antithrombin III, causing a conformational change that accelerates the inactivation of thrombin and factor Xa, and to a lesser extent factors IXa, XIa, and XIIa, thereby inhibiting coagulation. It also inhibits platelet aggregation and prolongs clotting times.
Deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis: 2500 IU subcutaneously once daily, starting 1-2 hours before surgery and continuing postoperatively for 5-10 days or until ambulatory. Treatment of acute DVT: 200 IU/kg subcutaneously once daily, or 100 IU/kg twice daily. Unstable angina/NSTEMI: 120 IU/kg subcutaneously every 12 hours (max 10,000 IU per dose) with aspirin.
Adults: Initial IV bolus 80 units/kg, then continuous IV infusion at 18 units/kg/hour. For therapeutic anticoagulation, adjust to target aPTT 1.5-2.5 times control. Dosing per institutional nomogram.
None Documented
None Documented
2-4 hours (anti-Xa activity) after subcutaneous administration; prolonged in renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min: up to 6-12 hours)
Terminal half-life 1.5 hours (range 1-3 hours) for therapeutic doses; dose-dependent, with higher doses prolonging half-life; half-life prolonged in hepatic or renal impairment.
Primarily renal excretion (up to 70% as unchanged drug via glomerular filtration); minor biliary/fecal elimination (<15%)
Renal: 50-60% as unchanged drug via glomerular filtration; hepatic metabolism (desulfation) accounts for minor clearance; fecal elimination negligible (<1%).
Category C
Category A/B
Anticoagulant
Anticoagulant