Products
Fondaparinux is commercially available as a solution for injection (Arixtra). It has been approved in many countries since 2002.
Structure and properties
Fondaparinux (C31H43N3Na10O49S8, Mr = 1728 g/mol) is a synthetic pentasaccharide belonging to the class of glycosaminoglycans. It is present in the drug as fondaparinux sodium.
Effects
Fondaparinux (ATC B01AX05) has antithrombotic properties. The effects are due to binding to antithrombin III and the resulting selective and indirect inhibition of factor Xa. Fondaparinux has no effect on platelets or thrombin.
Indications
- Prevention of venous thromboembolic events.
- Treatment of deep vein thrombosis and treatment of acute pulmonary embolism.
- Treatment of acute coronary syndrome with unstable angina or myocardial infarction without ST elevation.
- Treatment of acute myocardial infarction with ST elevation.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Fondaparinux is usually injected subcutaneously once daily.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Heavy bleeding
- Acute bacterial endocarditis
- Severe renal failure
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Caution should be exercised with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. They must either be discontinued prior to treatment or treatment must be monitored closely.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include bleeding, anemia, thrombocytopenia, purpura, urinary tract infections, hypokalemia, insomnia, elevated liver enzymes, and skin rashes.
