Drug
Dalteparin (porcine)
Pronounced
"dal-teh-PAIR-in"
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Irritation, bruising, and pain at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication can cause bleeding if its effect on your blood clotting proteins is too much. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious signs of bleeding, including: unusual pain/swelling/discomfort, unusual or prolonged bleeding, unusual or easy bruising, dark urine, black stools, severe headache, confusion, vision changes, unusual dizziness, fainting, seizures, weakness, numbness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using dalteparin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to heparins or pork products; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as latex found in the needle shield), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: serious active bleeding, artificial heart valves, bleeding or blood disorders (low platelet counts), certain eye problems (hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy), high blood pressure, infection of the heart, kidney disease, liver disease, low platelet counts after previous heparin treatment, certain stomach/intestinal problems (such as active or recent ulcers), stroke, recent spinal procedures or puncture, spine problems (such as spinal deformity), recent eye/brain/spinal cord surgery.
Limit alcohol while taking this drug because it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
To lower the chance of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially bleeding.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Medical Alert
Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).