FONDAPARINUX- Anticoagulant

DESCRIPTION

Fondaparinux (trade name Arixtra) is an anticoagulant medication chemically related to low molecular weight heparins. It is marketed by GlaxoSmithKline. A generic version developed by Alchemia is marketed within the US by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories.

Fondaparinux is an anticoagulant that helps prevent the formation of blood clots.

Generic Name: fondaparinux (fon DAP a rin ux)

Brand Name: Arixtra, Arixtra 5 mg/dose, Arixtra 7.5 mg/dose, Arixtra 10 mg/dose

MECHANISM OF ACTION-

 The antithrombotic activity of fondaparinux sodium is the result of antithrombin III (ATIII)-mediated selective inhibition of Factor Xa. By selectively binding to ATIII, fondaparinux sodium potentiates (about 300 times) the innate neutralization of Factor Xa by ATIII

BIOLOGICAL HALF LIFE- 17 – 21 HRS

USES-

Fondaparinux is used to prevent a type of blood clot called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism). A DVT can occur after certain types of surgery.

Fondaparinux is also used together with warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) to treat DVT, including pulmonary embolism.

SIDE EFFECT-

• fainting
• fever
• loss of appetite
• nosebleed; pale skin
•  pink or red urine; 
• severe or persistent dizziness or headache

DRUG INTERACTION-

• FONDAPARINUX+ ABCIXIMAB=Abciximab may increase the anticoagulant activities of Fondaparinux sodium
• FONDAPARINUX+AGATROBAN =Fondaparinux sodium may increase the anticoagulant activities of Argatroban.

REFERENCE

Tripathi K.D,"Essentials of medical pharmacology",7th edition,page no. 617, 619, 620, 625.