Fragmin Pre-Filled Syringe (Dalteparin Sodium)

Do’s

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before handling the Fragmin pre-filled syringe.
• Clean the chosen injection site (usually the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks) with an alcohol swab provided in the package. Allow the area to dry completely before injection.
• Check the expiration date on the syringe and ensure the solution is clear and free of particles. Don't use the syringe if it's expired or the solution is discolored.
• Inject Fragmin exactly as directed by your healthcare provider regarding dosage, injection frequency, and injection site rotation (using different injection sites each time).
• Gently tap the syringe barrel to remove any air bubbles before injecting.
• Hold the syringe like a dart and insert the needle straight into the injection site at a 90-degree angle.
• Push the plunger slowly and steadily to inject the medication.
• Apply gentle pressure with a sterile gauze pad on the injection site for a few seconds after removing the needle. Don't rub the area.
• Dispose of used needles and syringes in a designated sharps container. Never reuse needles or syringes.

Don'ts

• Don't touch the needle: Avoid touching the needle with your fingers to prevent contamination.
• Don't reuse the syringe: Fragmin pre-filled syringes are for single use only. Never reuse a syringe, even if there is medication remaining.
• Don't inject into a vein or muscle: Inject Fragmin only into the fatty tissue beneath the skin as directed by your healthcare provider. Avoid injecting into a vein or muscle.
• Don't miss doses: Try your best to take Fragmin as directed by your healthcare provider to maintain consistent medication levels in your body.
• Don't share your medication: Don't share your Fragmin pre-filled syringe with anyone else. This medication is prescribed for you specifically.

Common Side Effects

• Bleeding 
• Bruising 
• Chest pain 
• Chills 
• Dizziness 
• Fainting, or swelling in your hands or feet 
• Fever 
• Headache 
• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, bruising, swelling) 
• Itching 
• Nausea 
• Rapid breathing 
• Rash 
• Shortness of breath 
• Unusual tiredness or weakness 
• Vomiting 
• Weakness 

Serious Side Effects  

• Bleeding from your gums or nose 
• Blood clot around the spinal cord if you undergo a spinal tap or receive spinal anesthesia (epidural)
• Prolonged bleeding  
• Blood in your urine or stool 
• Chest pain 
• Confusion 
• Coughing up blood 
• Easy bruising 
• Rapid heart rate 
• Severe headache 
• Shortness of breath 
• Sudden vision changes 
• Weakness or numbness on one side of your body

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Fragmin pre-filled syringe, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies to dalteparin, heparins, pork products, or benzyl alcohol (inactive ingredient) before using Fragmin.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing health issues, particularly:

• Serious active bleeding
• Artificial heart valves
• Bleeding disorders (low platelet counts)
• Certain eye problems (hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy)
• High blood pressure
• Heart infection
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Stomach ulcers (active or recent)
• Stroke
• Recent spinal procedures or punctures
• Spine problems (deformity)
• Recent eye/brain/spinal cord surgery

Limit alcohol consumption while using Fragmin, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Take caution with sharp objects and avoid activities like contact sports to minimize cuts, bruises, or injuries.

Be aware that older adults may be more susceptible to bleeding side effects.

Fragmin use increases the risk of bleeding near the spinal cord during certain procedures, potentially leading to paralysis. Discuss this risk with your healthcare provider before any spinal procedure. You may need to stop Fragmin temporarily before and after the procedure.

The risk of bleeding is higher if you take other medications that affect blood clotting, such as:

• Antiplatelet drugs (clopidogrel)
• Blood thinners (warfarin, rivaroxaban)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like ibuprofen) Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take to avoid potential interactions.

Immediately report any symptoms of bleeding near the spinal cord, such as back pain, numbness/tingling/weakness in legs, or loss of bowel/bladder control.

Fragmin should only be used during pregnancy if clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Fragmin passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using Fragmin.