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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

DALTEPARIN - INJECTION

(DAL-te-PAR-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fragmin

WARNING: Tell your doctor you are using dalteparin before having certain spinal procedures (spinal puncture or spinal/epidural anesthesia). Use of this medication before these procedures has rarely caused major bleeding or blood clots in or around the spine. This effect may cause paralysis that may be permanent. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: tingling, weakness, numbness, trouble urinating, or pain.

This risk is increased when you use other "blood thinning" medications (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin) or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, ketorolac, naproxen), or when certain medication delivery devices (indwelling epidural catheters) are used. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication without first talking to your doctor.

You will be monitored closely while you are on this medication.

USES: Dalteparin is used to treat or prevent harmful blood clots. Preventing harmful blood clots helps to reduce the risk of a stroke or heart attack. This medication helps keep your blood flowing smoothly by lowering the activity of clotting proteins in the blood. Dalteparin is a type of heparin, and works as an anticoagulant (commonly called a "blood thinner").

Conditions that increase your risk of developing blood clots include certain types of surgeries (e.g., hip replacement or abdominal), long periods of being in one position (immobile), certain types of heart attack, and a certain type of chest pain called unstable angina. For some medical conditions, dalteparin may be used in combination with other "blood thinners."

HOW TO USE: This medication is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) by a healthcare professional. Follow your doctor's directions for using dalteparin. Do not inject into a muscle (intramuscularly). Dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Dosage may also be based on your weight for some conditions.

If you are giving yourself injections at home, make sure you learn how to prepare and inject this medication properly. Select a different site for each injection. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse any questions you may have about how to give yourself dalteparin. Learn how to properly dispose of used syringes, needles, and any unused medication. Never reuse needles or syringes.

If you are uncertain how this medication should be used, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain it to you.

This medication should not be mixed with or added to any other medication in the same syringe. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time(s) each day.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip any doses. It is very important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Do not stop taking dalteparin without first talking with your doctor.