Arixtra
Arixtra Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Arixtra is a brand name. Its generic name is Fondaparinux.
Arixtra Introduction
Arixtra sodium is a synthetic anticoagulant from a class of medications known as antithrombotics, also known as “blood thinners”. It is used to lower the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism. Arixtra belongs to the class of drugs called antithrombotics. It works by blocking the action of certain clotting substances in the blood.
Uses for Arixtra
Arixtra is used to prevent and treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism, including in patients undergoing certain orthopedic surgery procedures such as hip, knee, or abdominal surgery. It is also used in patients with unstable angina, or non-Q wave myocardial infarction.
Mechanism of Action
Arixtra works by blocking the action of certain clotting substances in the blood. It works similarly to heparin but is much more selective in its action. Arixtra acts on factor Xa, an enzyme involved in blood clotting, and prevents its activation and, thus, clot formation.
How long does it take to work?
The effects of fondaparinux usually take effect within 24 hours after administration. It is important to continue taking the medication for the full course of treatment, even if the patient feels better.
Absorption
Arixtra is well absorbed after SC administration. Peak concentrations occur 2–5 minutes after injection.
Route of Elimination
Arixtra is mainly eliminated by renal excretion. It is not metabolized by the liver.
Dosage
The recommended dose of Arixtra is 2.5 mg administered once daily by subcutaneous injection. In patients with renal impairment, dose adjustments should be made according to the patient’s creatinine clearance.
Administration
Arixtra is administered subcutaneously by an injection below the skin. The injection can be given in the abdomen, upper arm, thigh, or stomach.
Side Effects
Common side effects of fondaparinux may include bruising, bleeding, swelling, soreness at the injection site, and redness.
Toxicity
Overdose of fondaparinux can lead to bleeding, hematoma, or thrombocytopenia. If an overdose of fondaparinux is suspected, the patient should seek immediate medical attention.
Precautions
Arixtra should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to heparin or fondaparinux, or in those with severe kidney disease. It should also be used with caution in patients with recent surgery, pregnancy, or bleeding disorders.
Interactions
Arixtra should not be taken with other anticoagulants or thrombolytic agents. It should also not be taken with medicines that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, or with any other medication that contains fondaparinux.
Disease Interactions
Arixtra may interact with diseases including bleeding disorders, severe kidney disease, recent surgery, and pregnancy. If you have any of these conditions, it is important to inform your doctor before taking fondaparinux.
Drug Interactions
Arixtra may interact with other medications such as anticoagulants and thrombolytic agents, aspirin, and any other medication that contains fondaparinux. If you are taking any of these medications, it is important to inform your doctor before taking fondaparinux.
Food Interactions
Arixtra should not be taken with alcohol as this may increase the risk of bleeding. It should also be taken with caution in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pregnancy Use
Arixtra is not recommended for pregnant women. If you become pregnant while taking fondaparinux, it is important to consult your doctor.
Lactation Use
Arixtra is not recommended for breastfeeding women. If you become pregnant while taking fondaparinux, it is important to consult your doctor.
Acute Overdose
Overdose of fondaparinux may lead to bleeding, hematoma, or thrombocytopenia. If an overdose of fondaparinux is suspected, the patient should seek immediate medical attention.
Contraindication
Arixtra should not be used in patients with a known hypersensitivity to heparin or fondaparinux, or in those with severe kidney disease.
Use Directions
Arixtra should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The recommended dose is 2.5 mg administered once daily by subcutaneous injection. Do not change the dose or duration without consulting your doctor.
Storage Condition
Arixtra should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of fondaparinux is approximately 7-9 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of fondaparinux is approximately 17 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of fondaparinux is approximately 6.8 mL/min/kg.
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