Semuloparin sodium

Semuloparin sodium is an anticoagulant medication that is used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery. It is a type of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), which are a class of anticoagulant medications. Semuloparin sodium works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots in the veins, which can lead to DVT and other serious conditions such as pulmonary embolism.

Pharmacology

Semuloparin sodium is a synthetic pentasaccharide factor Xa inhibitor. It works by binding to antithrombin III, which in turn inhibits factor Xa. This prevents the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin, thereby inhibiting the formation of blood clots.

Clinical Use

Semuloparin sodium is used for the prophylaxis of venous thromboembolic events (VTE) in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery of the lower limbs such as hip fracture, hip replacement, or knee surgery. It is also used in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy to prevent thromboembolic complications.

Side Effects

Like other anticoagulants, semuloparin sodium can cause bleeding. Other side effects can include anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hypersensitivity reactions.

Contraindications

Semuloparin sodium is contraindicated in patients with active bleeding or a history of severe allergic reaction to semuloparin sodium or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with thrombocytopenia associated with a positive in vitro test for antiplatelet antibody in the presence of semuloparin sodium.

See Also

• Anticoagulant
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Low molecular weight heparin
• Pulmonary embolism