Fondaparinux Sodium: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects | MedexInfo

Fondaparinux Sodium

Rx / Injection

Generic NameFondaparinux Sodium

Therapeutic ClassSelective Factor Xa Inhibitor

RouteSubcutaneous

Max / 24h10 mg

PregnancyCategory B

Indications ▼

Prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following major orthopedic surgery (hip fracture, hip replacement, knee replacement)

Prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after abdominal surgery in high-risk patients

Treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis when used with warfarin

Treatment of acute pulmonary embolism (PE)

Management of unstable angina and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI)

Alternative anticoagulant in patients with history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)

Short-term anticoagulation when heparin is contraindicated

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Selectively binds antithrombin III, producing potent inhibition of Factor Xa. Does not inhibit thrombin (Factor IIa).

Pharmacokinetics: Nearly 100% bioavailability after subcutaneous injection. Peak plasma levels in 2 hours. Eliminated unchanged by kidneys. Half-life approximately 17–21 hours.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Indication	Dose	Frequency
DVT/PE prophylaxis	2.5 mg	Once daily SC
Body weight <50 kg	5 mg	Once daily
Body weight 50–100 kg	7.5 mg	Once daily
Body weight >100 kg	10 mg	Once daily

Administration: Inject subcutaneously into abdomen. Do not administer intramuscularly.

Side Effects ▼

Bleeding (most common)

Anemia

Injection site hematoma

Thrombocytopenia (rare)

Elevated liver enzymes

Contraindications ▼

Active major bleeding

Severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min)

Bacterial endocarditis

Hypersensitivity to fondaparinux

Drug Interaction ▼

Increased bleeding risk with aspirin, clopidogrel, NSAIDs

Concurrent anticoagulants increase hemorrhage risk

Careful monitoring with thrombolytics

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Pregnancy Category B

Used when heparin is contraindicated

Breastfeeding safety not fully established

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Clinical Role: Effective anticoagulant with predictable pharmacokinetics and no routine monitoring requirement.

Advantage: No risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Limitation: Renal clearance limits use in kidney failure.

Research Focus: Role in HIT and acute coronary syndrome.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Inject at same time each day

Report any bleeding or bruising

Avoid NSAIDs unless prescribed

Do not stop abruptly without medical advice

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 30°C

Do not freeze

Protect from light

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Fonidel® 2.5 mg/0.5 ml

Global:

Arixtra

Medical Disclaimer: Educational purpose only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Anticoagulants • Condition: DVT • Condition: Pulmonary Embolism • Condition: Acute Coronary Syndrome