Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH)

Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) refers to a class of anticoagulants derived from unfractionated heparin, characterised by shorter chains of glycosaminoglycans. Clinically, LMWH is crucial for preventing and treating venous thromboembolism due to its predictable pharmacokinetics and reduced risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia compared to unfractionated heparin. A key example of LMWH is enoxaparin, commonly used in post-surgical patients to prevent deep vein thrombosis.