Dalteparin vaccine: Have you had to use this drug? Let's be aware

You may remember that when you or someone you know was in the hospital, the doctor started you on a special injection to prevent blood clots. This is usually an injection that is injected under the skin of the abdomen. One such injection is called Dalteparin. It is used to prevent blood clots from forming, as well as to treat blood clots that have already formed. Today, we will talk about this important medicine in more detail.

Simply put, what is Dalteparin?

Dalteparin is a blood thinner . But when you say "blood thinner," it doesn't actually reduce the thickness of the blood, it slows down the clotting process. It belongs to a more advanced class of drugs called Heparin. To be precise, we call this Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH).

After major surgery, a heart attack, or a long-term bedridden patient, the risk of blood clots forming in the veins is high. Doctors use this medication to reduce that risk.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she will need to know your complete health history. This is because some conditions can make it dangerous to use this medicine. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.

• If you have bleeding disorders.
• If you are going to have surgery in the future.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have had stomach bleeding before.
• If you have had a previous stroke.
• If you have an infection of the heart or heart valves.
• If you have kidney disease or liver disease.
• If the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets in the blood is low.
• If you have an allergic reaction to Dalteparin, Heparin, pork or pork products, latex, other medicines, or foods.
• If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How is this vaccine used?

This is an injection that is injected under the skin. It is usually given in a hospital or clinic. However, in some cases, you will be taught how to give it correctly at home.

• Take it on time: Take the exact dose and time your doctor tells you to take. Don't skip doses or take them too often.
• Do not stop suddenly: It is strictly forbidden to stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so may increase your risk of developing a blood clot again.
• Dispose of needles safely: Do not throw used needles and syringes in the trash. There is a special container for them (sharps container). If you do not have one, ask your doctor about it.

Can this medicine be given to children?

Yes, in some special cases, this medicine is given to children as young as 1 month old. But it is done very carefully and only under medical supervision.

What to do if the medication dose is increased?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

Things to be very careful about when taking medicine

It is very important to think about your safety when using this medicine.

• Don't skip medical tests: Your doctor will ask you to have blood tests, especially to check your platelet count. Get these tests done right away.
• Inform about surgeries: If you are going to have any surgery, such as a tooth extraction, be sure to tell the doctor that you are taking dalteparin.
• Be careful of injuries: Stay away from sports and activities that can cause injuries during this time. Be very careful when using sharp tools and knives. If you shave, it is safer to use an electric razor. Be careful while brushing your teeth and flossing.
• Be careful of falls: If you fall while taking this medicine, there may be internal bleeding, even if there is no visible injury. So, if this happens, inform your doctor.
• Long-term use: Long-term use of this medication may weaken bones and increase the risk of fractures. Talk to your doctor about this as well.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

Taking certain other medications while taking dalteparin can increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, you should tell your doctor about all medications you take, even vitamins.

What side effects can be seen?

Like any medicine, dalteparin can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are mild.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.

Dalteparin, blood thinner, blood clot, Fragmin, Heparin, blood clot, DVT, deep vein thrombosis