Fragmin Ampule (Dalteparin Sodium)

Do’s

• Follow a healthcare provider's instructions: This includes dosage, frequency, and injection technique.
• Prepare the injection site: Clean the chosen injection site (abdomen or upper thigh) with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.
• Inspect the ampule: Check for damage or discoloration of the ampule and medication. Don't use it if compromised.
• Draw the medication: Attach a sterile syringe to the ampule and slowly withdraw the prescribed dose.
• Remove air bubbles: Tap the syringe to eliminate air bubbles, ensuring the correct dose remains.
• Inject properly: Pinch a skin fold at the site, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, and slowly inject the medication subcutaneously.
• Dispose of sharps safely: Discard the used syringe, needle, and ampule in a designated sharps container following local regulations.

Don'ts

• Don't use Fragmin if the ampule or medication appears damaged or discolored.
• Avoid rubbing the injection site after administering Fragmin to minimize bruising.
• Don't reuse the syringe or needle. Fragmin ampules are meant for single-dose use.
• Don't throw away used syringes, needles, or ampules in regular trash.

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 ampule, 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.