Unfractionated and low-molecular-weight heparin. Comparisons and current recommendations.
Intravenous heparin followed by warfarin has been the classical anticoagulant therapy of acute venous thromboembolism for the past 30 years. In recent years a number of low-molecular-weight heparins have become available for clinical trials. These agents have a number of advantages over unfractionated heparin and are now being used internationally for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism. Low-molecular-weight heparin will undoubtedly replace intravenous unfractionated heparin not only in the treatment of venous thromboembolism but in other conditions where heparin therapy is indicated. Whether or not the low-molecular-weight heparins can decrease or eliminate some of the complications of unfractionated heparin will depend on the outcome of future clinical trials.
Pineo
G F
GF
Thrombosis Research Unit, Foothills Hospital, Alberta, Canada.
Hull
R D
RD
D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006493:Heparin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000188:drug therapy
D000925:Anticoagulants; D005343:Fibrinolytic Agents; D006495:Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight; D006493:Heparin