Low-Molecular-Weight Heparins

After almost two decades of intensive research, low-molecular-weight heparins have established their niche as an important class of antithrombotic compounds. The demonstration that these compounds are safe and effective for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism has led to the licensing of several of them in Europe and North America. In addition, danaparoid sodium, which is a mixture of dermatan sulfate, heparan sulfate, and chondroitin sulfate, is often used for the treatment of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.1 Low-molecular-weight heparins have replaced unfractionated heparin in many parts of Europe but are only now finding their place in North America. Their use is . . .