Authors

  1. Belavic, Jennifer PharmD

Article Content

Do you know what they contain? Match the brand names in Section I with the generic ingredients in Section II.

 

SECTION I

_____ 1. Arixtra (GlaxoSmithKline)

 

_____ 2. Coumadin (Bristol-Myers Squibb)

 

_____ 3. Lovenox (Sanofi-Aventis)

 

_____ 4. Angiomax (The Medicines Co.)

 

SECTION II

a. enoxaparin 100 mg/mL, 150 mg/mL

 

Indications for this low-molecular-weight heparin include deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis and treatment. Because it's eliminated by the kidneys, patients with renal dysfunction may need dosage adjustments. Use with caution in patients at risk for hemorrhage.

 

b. bivalirudin 250 mg

 

A direct thrombin inhibitor, this I.V. drug is indicated in patients with unstable angina undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. Adjust the dosage for patients with renal impairment, as prescribed.

 

c. fondaparinux 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg

 

This Factor Xa inhibitor is indicated for DVT prophylaxis in patients undergoing hip fracture or hip replacement surgery, knee replacement surgery, or abdominal surgery, as well as for treatment of DVT or acute pulmonary embolism when administered with warfarin. Use with caution in patients who have the above conditions or are taking other medications that increase hemorrhage risk.

 

d. warfarin 1 mg, 2 mg, 2.5 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg

 

This vitamin K antagonist is given at dosages based on the patient's prothrombin time/international normalized ratio. Strictly adhere to the dosage schedule to avoid potentially fatal bleeding. Review the product insert to learn about the many drug interactions associated with warfarin.

  
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