Enoxaparin (Lovenox): Overview
Enoxaparin (Lovenox) is an anticoagulant medicine. It is one of a class of anticoagulants called low molecular weight heparin. Many people call these medicines blood thinners. They don't actually thin the blood, but they increase the time it takes a blood clot to form. This reduces the chance of a blood clot in the leg veins (deep vein thrombosis) or in the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
Enoxaparin is a shot (injection). You or someone caring for you will inject it once or twice a day. Most people need shots for 5 to 10 days, but in some cases it can be longer. Your doctor will tell you how long you need to have the shots.
Enoxaparin is used to:
- Treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a blood clot in the legs, pelvis, or arms.
- Reduce the chance of getting blood clots after certain surgeries. For example, you may take enoxaparin after knee or hip replacement surgery.
- Reduce the chance of getting blood clots in people who are likely to get them and who are not active for a long period of time. For example, you may need enoxaparin if you need to stay in bed for a long time because of a health problem.
- Reduce the chance of blood clots when another blood thinner is stopped for a short time. For example, if you take warfarin and need surgery, your doctor may ask you to stop taking warfarin for a short time before the surgery. If you have a high risk of blood clots during this time, you may take enoxaparin before the surgery. After the surgery, your doctor will tell you when it is safe to start taking warfarin again. This is called bridge therapy.
Enoxaparin (Lovenox): When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You have signs of severe bleeding, such as:
- A severe headache that is different from past headaches.
- Vomiting blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
- Passing maroon or very bloody stools.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have unexpected bleeding, including:
- Blood in stools or black stools that look like tar.
- Blood in your urine.
- Bruises or blood spots under the skin.
- You feel dizzy or lightheaded.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
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