GENERIC NAME: ARDEPARIN- INJECTION (are-duh-PAIR-in)

BRAND NAME(S): Normiflo

Warning | Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Tell your doctor you are using this medication before undergoing any procedure involving spinal puncture/anesthesia. Using this medication before these procedures has caused major bruising or bleeding (epidural or spinal hematoma) inside your body. This may leave you paralyzed, maybe permanently. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects: tingling, weakness, numbness, difficulty urinating or pain. This risk is increased when you use other "blood thinning" medications (e.g., aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), or when certain medication delivery devices (indwelling epidural catheters) are used. You will be monitored closely while you are on this medication.

USES: This medication is a "blood thinner" which helps prevent formation of blood clots. It is used after knee replacement surgery.

OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for other types of knee surgeries or to treat blood clots.

HOW TO USE: This medication is administered by injection under the skin (subcutaneously), by a health care professional usually twice a day following surgery. Injection sites will be rotated to limit irritation. Therapy with this medication may be continued for 7 to 14 days or until the risk of blood clot formation is limited. Do not inject into a muscle (intramuscularly). Properly discard used syringes and needles.

SIDE EFFECTS: Irritation, pain, tenderness and redness may occur at the site of injection. Nausea or swelling of the hands or feet may also occur. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. If you have had a spinal procedure along with this drug, promptly report weakness, numbness or pain. Notify your doctor if you experience: fever, mental confusion, unusual bruising or bleeding, black stools. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.