Before discussing Flohep 60 mg injection, it's important to state that information provided is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.
Flohep 60 mg injection is an anticoagulant medication containing enoxaparin, which is classified as a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). It acts as a 'blood thinner' to stop existing blood clots from getting bigger and to prevent new ones from forming. Flohep is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) and is crucial in managing and preventing various thromboembolic disorders, conditions involving harmful blood clots.
Primary Uses of Flohep 60 mg Injection
Flohep 60 mg injection is prescribed for several conditions requiring blood clot prevention and treatment. These include:
- Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): It is used in hospital patients with reduced mobility after surgery (hip, knee, abdominal) or due to illness to prevent leg blood clots.
- Treating DVT and Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Flohep 60 mg is part of the treatment for active DVT, with or without PE, often combined with an oral anticoagulant.
- Acute Coronary Syndromes: Used with aspirin for unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction. It can also treat acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) managed medically or with PCI.
- Hemodialysis: It prevents blood clot formation in dialysis machine tubing during hemodialysis.
How Flohep 60 mg Works
Enoxaparin works by inhibiting specific proteins in the blood clotting process. It boosts the activity of antithrombin, a natural anticoagulant, which in turn inhibits clotting factors Factor Xa and thrombin. This action helps blood flow smoothly and prevents clots from growing or forming, without significantly affecting platelet function or standard clotting tests at recommended doses.
Administration
Flohep 60 mg is usually injected subcutaneously into the fatty tissue under the skin. The abdomen is the preferred site, and rotation of injection sites is recommended. The appropriate amount and frequency of administration depend on the patient's condition, weight, and kidney function and should be determined by a healthcare professional. Patients or caregivers may be instructed on how to perform injections at home.
Potential Side Effects and Safety Profile
The most common risk associated with Flohep 60 mg is bleeding, ranging from minor bruising to severe internal bleeding.
Common Side Effects:
- Bleeding or bruising at the injection site
- Increased liver enzymes
- Nausea, diarrhea
- Fever, headache
Serious Side Effects:
- Major bleeding (e.g., in urine or stool, persistent nosebleeds) requires immediate medical attention.
- Spinal/epidural hematoma is a rare but serious risk for patients with spinal anesthesia or puncture, potentially leading to paralysis.
- Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a condition causing a drop in platelet count.
Flohep (Enoxaparin) vs. Unfractionated Heparin
Both enoxaparin (Flohep) and unfractionated heparin are injectable anticoagulants with key differences.
| Feature | Flohep (Enoxaparin) | Unfractionated Heparin |
|---|---|---|
| Dosing Predictability | More predictable | Less predictable |
| Administration | Subcutaneous (can be self-administered) | Intravenous or subcutaneous (typically hospital) |
| Monitoring | Less frequent lab monitoring needed | Frequent aPTT monitoring required |
| Half-life | Longer | Shorter |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment required; caution in severe cases | Often preferred for severe renal impairment |
Important Precautions
Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions or other medications before using Flohep 60 mg. This includes:
- Bleeding disorders
- Kidney disease
- Recent stroke or surgery
- Concurrent use of other medications affecting blood clotting (aspirin, NSAIDs, warfarin)
- Allergies to enoxaparin, heparin, or pork products
Conclusion
Flohep 60 mg injection, containing enoxaparin, is a widely used anticoagulant for preventing and treating dangerous blood clots. Its predictable nature and administration make it valuable for managing DVT, PE, and acute coronary syndromes. However, understanding its uses, how it works, and its risks is crucial for safe treatment. Always follow healthcare provider instructions and report any unusual symptoms.
For more detailed information, consult the MedlinePlus drug information page on Enoxaparin.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
