1. Understanding COPD Slideshow
2. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Quiz
3. Energy Foods for COPD Slideshow Pictures

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using enoxaparin (Lovenox)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to enoxaparin, heparin, benzyl alcohol, or pork products, or if you have:

• active or uncontrolled bleeding; or
• a low level of platelets in your blood after testing positive for a certain antibody while using enoxaparin.

Enoxaparin may cause you to bleed more easily, especially if you have:

• a bleeding disorder that is inherited or caused by disease;
• hemorrhagic stroke;
• an infection of the lining of your heart (also called bacterial endocarditis);
• stomach or intestinal bleeding or ulcer; or
• recent brain, spine, or eye surgery.

• a genetic spinal defect;
• a history of spinal surgery or repeated spinal taps; or
• if you are using other medications to treat or prevent blood clots.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need an enoxaparin dose adjustment or special tests:

• kidney or liver disease;
• uncontrolled high blood pressure;
• eye problems caused by diabetes;
• recent stomach ulcer; or
• if you have ever had low blood platelets after receiving heparin.

FDA pregnancy category B. Enoxaparin is not expected to harm an unborn baby. However, some forms of this medication contain a preservative that may be harmful to a newborn. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. If you use this medication during pregnancy, make sure your doctor knows if you have a mechanical heart valve.

It is not known whether enoxaparin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not receive this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use enoxaparin (Lovenox)?

Enoxaparin is injected under the skin or into a vein through an IV. You may be shown how to use injections at home. Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles, IV tubing, and other items used to inject the medicine.

You should be sitting or lying down during the injection. Do not inject enoxaparin into a muscle.

Use a different place on your stomach each time you give an injection under the skin. Your care provider will show you the best places on your body to inject the medication. Do not inject into the same place two times in a row.

Prepare your dose in a syringe only when you are ready to give yourself an injection. Do not mix enoxaparin with other medications in the same IV. Do not use the medication if it has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.

Use a disposable needle only once. Throw away used needles in a puncture-proof container (ask your pharmacist where you can get one and how to dispose of it). Keep this container out of the reach of children and pets.

Enoxaparin is usually given every day until your bleeding condition improves. Follow your doctor's instructions.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood and your stool (bowel movement) may need to be tested often. Your nerve and muscle function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using enoxaparin. If you need surgery or dental work, tell the surgeon or dentist ahead of time that you are using this medication.

Store enoxaparin vials (bottles) at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Once you have used a vial for the first time, the medicine will keep at room temperature for up to 28 days. Throw away the vial after 28 days have passed since you first used the vial, even if there is still medicine left in it.

Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill finder tool on RxList.