Low molecular weight heparins for arterial thrombosis

Abstract

The use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism has been validated by numerous clinical trials and meta-analyses over the past 25 years. More recently, the possibility of extending treatment with LMWH to the arterial disease where thrombosis is a prominent feature has led to the planning of many clinical trials, several of which have been already published. LMWH has been tested in settings such as acute coronary syndromes, including myocardial infarction, surgery or percutaneous revascularization for coronary and peripheral arteries, and stroke. In most indications, LMWH has proved to be superior to or at least as effective as unfractionated heparin and it is also easier to administer.