US Pharm. 2010;35(9):71.
The FDA approved the first generic version of enoxaparin sodium injection (Lovenex), an anticoagulant drug made from heparin that is used for multiple indications, including prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Preventing these blood clots can prevent a pulmonary embolism, which is a sudden, potentially fatal blockage in a lung artery that can occur if a blood clot breaks free and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs.
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, at least 100,000 cases of pulmonary embolism occur each year in the U.S. It is the third most common cause of death among hospitalized patients. Enoxaparin sodium injection (Sandoz Inc.) is also used to prevent blood clots in patients confined to bed and for patients experiencing chest pain and heart attacks.
