Fondaparinux

Fondaparinux is a drug  to prevent and treat blood clots in deep veins or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To increase the effectiveness of treatment, fondaparinux is usually combined with warfarin.

Fondaparinux is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting the activity of factor Xa in the blood clotting process . That way, the formation of clots or blood clots in the deep veins can be prevented.

Blood clots in the deep veins are at risk in people who have recently undergone abdominal or pelvic surgery, as well as in people who have to lie down for a long time.

DVT that is not prevented and treated can cause dangerous and life-threatening pulmonary embolism .

Brand names of fondaparinux:  Arixtra, Forixtra, Fondaparinux Sodium, Vasola

What Is Fondaparinux?

Warnings  Before Using Fondaparinux

Fondaparinux can only be used according to a doctor's prescription. There are several things that should be considered before using this medicine, among others:

• Do not use fondaparinux if you are allergic to this medicine. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other blood thinners , such as rivaroxaban.
• Tell your doctor if you have ever or are suffering from kidney disease, liver disease, gastric ulcer , gastrointestinal bleeding, hypertension , heart infection, stroke , eye disease due to diabetes , intestinal inflammation, blood clotting disorders, including  thrombocytopenia.
• Tell the doctor if you have recently undergone a spinal , epidural anesthesia procedure, or have recently undergone spine, eye, or brain surgery.
• Tell your doctor if you weigh less than 50 kg before using fondaparinux.
• Do not consume  alcoholic beverages during treatment with fondaparinux, as it can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding .
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking other medicines, including herbal medicines and supplements.
• See a doctor immediately if you experience a drug allergic reaction , serious side effects, or overdose after using fondaparinux.

Dosage and Administration of Fondaparinux

Fondaparinux will be given by subcutaneous injection (under the skin/SC) by a doctor or medical staff under the supervision of a doctor. The following is the dosage division of fondaparinux based on the purpose of treatment:

Purpose: Treating deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Adults weighing <50 kg: 5 mg, 1 time per day.
• Adults with a body weight of 50–100 kg: 7.5 mg, 1 time per day.
• Adults with body weight >100 kg: 10 mg, 1 time per day. Duration of treatment is done for 5-9 days.

Purpose: Treat external venous thrombosis ( superficial )

• Adults: 2.5 mg, 1 time a day, for 30–45 days.

Condition: Preventing DVT in patients who will undergo abdominal surgery or bone surgery (orthopedics)

• Adults: 2.5 mg, 1 time a day. Treatment begins 6-8 hours after surgery. Treatment is done for 5–9 days. For patients with a high risk of DVT, the duration of treatment can be extended to 32 days after surgery.

How to Use Fondaparinux Correctly

Fondaparinux can only be injected by a doctor or medical personnel under the supervision of a doctor. Follow the advice and recommendations during therapy using fondaparinux.

Fondaparinux can increase the risk of bleeding, always be careful during activities during therapy with fondaparinux. As much as possible, avoid collisions or activities that could cause injury.

Fondaparinux Interactions  with Other Drugs

Fondaparinux can increase the risk of bleeding when used with the following medicines:

• Other anticoagulant drugs, such as warfarin , heparin, or apixaban
• Antiplatelet drugs , such as  cilostazol , prasugrel,  clopidogrel , aspirin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen , ketorolac, or diclofenac
• Fibrinolytic drugs, such as alteplase or streptokinase

In addition, the use of fondaparinux together with products containing ginger,  gingko biloba or ginseng, is also believed to increase the risk of bleeding. To prevent unwanted interactions, always tell your doctor about your medical history.

Side Effects and Dangers of Fondaparinux

Side effects that may arise after consuming fondaparinux are:

• Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• Rash, itching, bruising, or swelling at the injection site
• Dizziness or headache
• Confusion
• Nausea or  vomiting
• Pale skin

Check with your doctor if the above side effects continue or even get worse. You should also see a doctor immediately if an allergic reaction to the drug occurs or more serious side effects appear, such as:

• Easy bruising or frequent nosebleeds
• Menstruation that is heavy and lasts longer ( menorrhagia )
• Dark colored urine
• Yellowing of the skin and eyes ( jaundice )
• Dizziness until fainting
• Chest pain , fast or irregular heartbeat
• Very severe headache
• Convulsions
• Weakness on one side of the body