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(LMW)heparin
Low-molecular-weight heparin inhibits blood coagulation by enhancing the activity of antithrombin III, which inactivates clotting factors Xa and IIa.
Low-molecular-weight heparin inhibits blood coagulation by enhancing the activity of antithrombin III, which inactivates clotting factors Xa and IIa. Used for Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis, Treatment of deep vein thrombosis, Treatment of pulmonary embolism.
At a glance
| Generic name | (LMW)heparin |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Sanofi |
| Drug class | Anticoagulant |
| Target | Antithrombin III (enhancer); Factor Xa and Factor IIa (indirect targets) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Cardiovascular |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
LMW heparin is derived from unfractionated heparin through chemical or enzymatic depolymerization, resulting in shorter chain lengths. It preferentially inhibits Factor Xa over Factor IIa, providing a more predictable pharmacokinetic profile and improved bioavailability compared to unfractionated heparin. This selective anticoagulant activity makes it suitable for both therapeutic and prophylactic use in thrombotic conditions.
Approved indications
- Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis
- Treatment of deep vein thrombosis
- Treatment of pulmonary embolism
- Acute coronary syndrome
Common side effects
- Bleeding
- Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)
- Injection site hematoma
- Thrombocytopenia
Key clinical trials
- Anti-inflammatory Drug Algorithm for COVID-19 Home Treatment (PHASE3)
- Heparin Alone vs. Heparin-Aspirin Combo in Free Flap Survival (NA)
- COVID-19 Algorithm Treatment at Home (PHASE3)
- A Simple Approach to Prevent Hospitalization for COVID-19 Patients
- A Simple Approach to Treat COVID-19 Patients at Home.
- Safety and Effectiveness of Low Molecular Weight Sulfated Dextran in Islet Transplantation (PHASE2)
- Cancer Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) (PHASE3)
- Comparative Investigation of Low Molecular Weight (LMW) Heparin/Edoxaban Tosylate (DU176b) Versus (LMW) Heparin/Warfarin in the Treatment of Symptomatic Deep-Vein Blood Clots and/or Lung Blood Clots. (The Edoxaban Hokusai-VTE Study). (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |