Dalteparin (Injection)

Dalteparin (dal-TE-pa-rin)

Prevents clots from forming in blood vessels during or after surgery.

Brand Name(s):

Fragmin
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to dalteparin, heparin, or pork products. You should not use dalteparin if you have a bleeding disorder or active bleeding.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine. It may also be given by a home health caregiver.
• You may be taught how to give your medicine at home. Make sure you understand all instructions before giving yourself an injection. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• You will be shown the body areas where this shot can be given. Use a different body area each time you give yourself a shot. Keep track of where you give each shot to make sure you rotate body areas.
• Use a new needle and syringe each time you inject your medicine.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. If you miss more than one dose, call your doctor or home health caregiver for instructions.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Throw away used needles in a hard, closed container that the needles cannot poke through. Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.
• If you store this medicine at home, keep it at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using blood thinners (Coumadin®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, a stomach ulcer, or have had a stroke.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have had surgery recently, including dental surgery or eye surgery.
• Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, tightness in chest, trouble breathing
• Blood in urine or stools
• Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Nosebleeds, coughing up blood
• Pain, swelling, or bruising where the shot was given
• Unexplained fever, chills, or sore throat
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild irritation where the shot is given

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.