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Updated: May 27, 2026
11:17
Rapid Point-of-Care Assay of Enoxaparin Anticoagulant Efficacy in Whole Blood
Published on: October 12, 2012
Old and new heparins
Benilde Cosmi1, Gualtiero Palareti
1Dept. Angiology and Blood Coagulation Marino Golinelli, University Hospital S. Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy. benilde.cosmi@unibo.it
Thrombosis Research
|December 6, 2011
Summary
Heparin is a common antithrombotic, but has limitations. Newer heparin derivatives like low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) offer improved characteristics for preventing and treating blood clots.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
- Hematology
Background:
- Heparin is a widely used parenteral antithrombotic agent for thromboembolic disorders.
- Heparin exhibits significant variability in anticoagulant response and has limitations in bioavailability and risk-benefit ratio.
- Development of heparin derivatives aims to overcome these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics of low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs), ultra-LMWHs, and synthetic pentasaccharides.
- To describe the approved clinical uses of these heparin derivatives.
- To compare the advantages of novel anticoagulants over unfractionated heparin.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pharmacological properties.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for efficacy and safety.
- Comparison of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles.
Main Results:
- LMWHs, ultra-LMWHs, and pentasaccharides demonstrate improved predictability and bioavailability compared to heparin.
- These agents offer a more favorable risk-benefit profile in various clinical settings.
- Specific indications and dosing regimens for approved uses are established.
Conclusions:
- Heparin derivatives represent significant advancements in antithrombotic therapy.
- These agents provide safer and more effective options for managing thromboembolic conditions.
- Further research may explore expanded applications and novel anticoagulant strategies.
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