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Low-molecular-weight heparins in clinical practice
1Section of General Internal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Tex., USA.
Southern Medical Journal
|January 23, 1998
Summary
Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is effective for treating deep vein thrombosis and preventing clots in orthopedic surgery. Further research is needed for its use in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) offers an effective and convenient alternative to unfractionated heparin for venous thromboembolism (VTE) treatment and prophylaxis.
- LMWH demonstrates significant efficacy and ease of administration, making it a preferred option in clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical trial data on LMWH.
- To develop recommendations for the clinical use of LMWH.
- To evaluate the current evidence for LMWH in various medical conditions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE for clinical trials involving LMWH.
- Critical review of selected clinical trials.
- Synthesis of evidence to formulate clinical practice recommendations.
Main Results:
- Extensive data support LMWH use in the treatment and prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism.
- Evidence for LMWH in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders is less established.
- LMWH shows promise in unstable angina as a heparin alternative.
Conclusions:
- LMWH is strongly recommended for acute deep vein thrombosis therapy, pending FDA approval.
- LMWH is an excellent prophylactic agent for orthopedic surgery patients.
- Current indications for LMWH beyond VTE and orthopedic prophylaxis are not well-defined.