Low-molecular-weight heparins.

Abstract

Low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH) are a new group of parenteral anticoagulants. They represent a major clinical advance in anticoagulation since the identification of unfractionated heparin (UFH) in 1922 and the introduction of the synthetic coumarin derivative, warfarin, in 1948. Their predictable pharmacokinetics, increased bioavailability, and longer plasma half-life allow for once- or twice-daily dosing and eliminate the need for routine laboratory monitoring. This simplified administration stands to alter the clinical practice of anticoagulation. This review high-lights recent clinical trials and focuses on studies comparing LMWH with the other two major anticoagulants: UFH and coumadin.