low molecular weight heparin calcium

Low molecular weight heparin calcium (LMWH-Ca) is a form of low molecular weight heparin in which the active anticoagulant component is present as a calcium salt. LMWHs are derived from unfractionated heparin by chemical or enzymatic depolymerization, resulting in shorter polysaccharide chains with an average molecular weight of about `4–5 kDa`[2][4]. The primary mechanism of action is potentiation of antithrombin III activity, leading to inhibition of factor Xa and, to a lesser extent, thrombin (factor IIa)[4]. Compared to unfractionated heparin, LMWHs have more predictable pharmacokinetics and longer half-life, allowing for subcutaneous administration without routine laboratory monitoring[2][3][4]. They are used for prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), unstable angina, and as anticoagulation during certain surgeries or in patients with cancer[3][7]. The calcium salt formulation may be preferred in some clinical settings due to differences in solubility or patient tolerance.

Brand names

LovenoxFragminInnohepNormifloAlphaparinFraxiparinFluxumClivarin

Other names

LMWH-Calow-molecular-weight heparin calcium