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In this Article

• What is fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• What are the possible side effects of fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• What is the most important information I should know about fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• How should I use fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Arixtra)?
• What happens if I overdose (Arixtra)?
• What should I avoid while using fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• What other drugs will affect fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using fondaparinux (Arixtra)?

You should not use fondaparinux if you weigh less than 110 pounds (50 kilograms), or if you have:

• severe kidney disease;
• active bleeding;
• a low level of platelets in your blood; or
• an infection of the lining of your heart (also called bacterial endocarditis).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use fondaparinux:

• kidney disease;
• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia;
• a stomach ulcer or history of stomach bleeding;
• eye problems caused by diabetes;
• severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure;
• a history of stroke;
• if you have recently had brain or eye surgery; or
• if you are allergic to latex rubber.

FDA pregnancy category B. Fondaparinux is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether fondaparinux passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication.

How should I use fondaparinux (Arixtra)?

Use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Fondaparinux is given as an injection under the skin. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider will give you this injection. You may be shown how to inject your medicine at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes.

Fondaparinux should not be injected into a muscle or a vein.

Use each disposable needle only one time. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has any particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

To be sure fondaparinux is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney function may also need to be checked. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

If you undergo a spinal tap or any type of spinal anesthesia (such as an epidural), tell the doctor ahead of time that you are using fondaparinux. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time before having such procedures.

Store fondaparinux at room temperature away from moisture and heat.