Molekyyliparin

Molekyyliparin, also known as low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), is a type of anticoagulant medication used to prevent and treat blood clots. It is derived from heparin, a naturally occurring substance found in animal tissues, but is chemically modified to have a lower molecular weight. This modification reduces the risk of bleeding associated with heparin, making molekyyliparin a safer alternative for many patients.

Molekyyliparin works by inhibiting the action of thrombin, an enzyme that plays a key role in blood clotting. By preventing thrombin from converting fibrinogen to fibrin, molekyyliparin helps to maintain the balance between coagulation and anticoagulation, reducing the formation of blood clots.

The most commonly used molekyyliparin preparations include enoxaparin (Lovenox), dalteparin (Fragmin), and tinzaparin (Innohep). These medications are typically administered via subcutaneous injection and have a shorter duration of action compared to unfractionated heparin.

Molekyyliparin is indicated for the prevention and treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), as well as for the prevention of DVT in patients undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery. It is also used to treat heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a condition characterized by low platelet counts due to heparin exposure.

As with any medication, molekyyliparin carries potential side effects, including bleeding, bruising, and injection site reactions. It is important for patients to discuss the benefits and risks of molekyyliparin with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.