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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Lovenox HP, also known as enoxaparin sodium injection, is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). It belongs to a class of drugs known as low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs). Enoxaparin works by inhibiting certain factors in the blood clotting process, which helps reduce the likelihood of forming harmful clots. This medication is often prescribed after surgery to prevent blood clots in patients who are at risk or in patients who are immobile during an illness. It is also used in the treatment of existing blood clots to prevent them from becoming more dangerous.
Before you buy Lovenox injection, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Lovenox cost.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C26H40N2O36S5 (Molecular formula of the active ingredient) |
License | FDA Approved |
Bioavailability | Approximately 100% (Subcutaneous injection) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Enoxaparin sodium |
Elimination half-life | 4.5 hours (subcutaneous administration) |
Dosage (Strength) | Pre-filled syringes (e.g., 40 mg/0.4 mL, 60 mg/0.6 mL, 80 mg/0.8 mL) |
Pregnancy | Should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed (Category B) |
Brands | Lovenox, Clexane, among others |
Protein binding | 80-90% (to plasma proteins, mainly antithrombin) |
PubChem CID | 90475746 (Enoxaparin sodium) |
MedlinePlus | a601210 (Lovenox) |
ChEBI | 31373 (Enoxaparin sodium) |
ATC code | B01AB05 |
DrugBank | DB01225 (Enoxaparin sodium) |
KEGG | D07957 (Enoxaparin sodium) |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous or Intravenous injection |
Lovenox HP is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically in the fatty layer of tissue just under the skin. Follow these steps for proper administration:
Preparing the Injection:
The recommended sites for injection are the abdomen area (at least 2 inches away from the belly button) or the outer areas of the thigh. Alternate the injection site each time to minimize skin irritation.
Injecting the Dose:
Lovenox uses Enoxaparin sodium as its active ingredient.
Do not use Lovenox HP if you have a history of allergies to enoxaparin, heparin, or pork products.
Enoxaparin increases the risk of bleeding. Use with caution if you have a bleeding disorder, gastrointestinal ulcer, or recent brain, spinal, or eye surgery.
Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with kidney disease due to increased risk of bleeding.
Lovenox HP may interact with other medications, which can increase the risk of serious side effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), platelet inhibitors and other anticoagulants and herbal supplements, such as ginkgo biloba, garlic, and St. John's Wort, which may affect bleeding time.
Common side effects of Lovenox HP include:
How to inject Lovenox?
Lovenox is injected subcutaneously, often in the abdomen. Clean the injection site, pinch a fold of skin, and inject the needle at a 90-degree angle.
Where to inject Lovenox?
Lovenox is typically injected in the abdomen, at least 2 inches from the belly button.
What happens if Lovenox is injected into muscle?
Injecting Lovenox into muscle can cause irritation, pain, and inflammation. It may also lead to slower absorption and potential complications.
When to stop Lovenox before surgery?
Lovenox is usually stopped at least 24 hours, and up to a week, prior to surgery.
Does Lovenox affect PT INR?
Lovenox does not significantly affect PT INR.
Does Lovenox affect platelets?
Lovenox can cause a decrease in platelet count, a condition known as thrombocytopenia.
Is Lovenox safe in pregnancy?
While there isn’t much evidence, Lovenox is generally considered safe during pregnancy.
How long do you take Lovenox for IVF?
The duration varies, but most women end up taking medications like Lovenox for about 9-11 days before egg retrieval in an IVF cycle.
Is Lovenox safe for breastfeeding?
Lovenox is generally considered safe during lactation.
What should you not take with Lovenox?
You should avoid taking other blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and certain supplements like garlic, ginger, ginkgo or ginseng with Lovenox.
When to start Lovenox in pregnancy?
The timing to start Lovenox in pregnancy depends on the individual’s medical history and doctor’s recommendation. It’s often used in cases of high risk of deep vein thrombosis or history of venous thromboembolism.
Why does Lovenox hurt?
Lovenox injections might cause discomfort or pain at the injection site. This is a common side effect of subcutaneous injections.