Instructions for Injecting Clexane (Enoxaparin)

Instructions for Injecting Clexane (Enoxaparin)

Clexane is an anticoagulant drug used to reduce the risk of blood clots. Blood clots can form in deep veins, typically in the legs (deep vein thrombosis). While these clots might not be immediately life-threatening, they must be treated as soon as possible. A blood clot can detach and travel through the bloodstream (embolism). If it reaches the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, which can be potentially fatal.

Risk Factors for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
  • Prolonged immobility
  • A history of venous thrombosis
  • Obesity
  • Cancer
  • Heart failure
  • Lung failure
  • Chronic lung diseases
  • Pneumonia or lung infections
  • Various infections
  • Abdominal and pelvic surgeries (which may exacerbate clot formation)
  • Birth control pills
  • Estrogen replacement therapies
Injecting Clexane
  • Wash and dry your hands with soap and water.
  • The injection should be given while the patient is lying down or sitting. Choose a part of the abdomen from the left or right side, about 5 cm away from the navel. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab. Ensure that alternate injections are given on the left or right side of the abdomen.
  • Remove the protective cap from the needle. If a drop of liquid appears at the end of the needle, tap the syringe gently to remove it before injection.
  • Begin the injection, and do not expel air from the syringe before administering the dose.
  • For injecting enoxaparin (Clexane), the needle must be inserted completely perpendicular (not at an angle) into a skin fold between the thumb and index finger. The entire needle should go into the skin fold, which should be pinched between the fingers throughout the injection.
  • After the injection, continue pressing the syringe until the safety mechanism activates automatically.
    • The safety cover automatically shields the needle without causing discomfort to the patient.
    • The safety mechanism activates only after the syringe is fully emptied.
Precautions During Clexane Use
  • After cleaning the injection site with alcohol, allow it to dry. Moisture can increase the burning sensation.
  • Hold the skin fold gently until the injection is completed.
  • Change the injection site with each dose.
  • Dispose of the syringe in a safe container after use.
  • Administer Clexane at a fixed time every day as per the prescription.
  • Watch for any unusual symptoms or unwanted bleeding.
  • Be cautious when using sharp objects, like knives, while on the medication.
  • Consult your doctor if you’re using other medications, dietary supplements, or herbal products.
  • After removing the needle cap, avoid pointing it downward or letting it touch anything. This helps maintain the sterility of the syringe.
  • Never twist off the needle cap, as it could bend the needle.
  • Do not inject Clexane into a wound, bruise, or any area that could be affected by clothing.
  • Do not massage the injection site post-injection, as it could cause bruising.
  • Do not freeze Clexane. Keep it at room temperature.
  • Do not take Clexane or warfarin with aspirin, dipyridamole, indomethacin, or ibuprofen without a doctor’s approval, as combining these medications increases the risk of bleeding.
Common Side Effects of Enoxaparin
  • The most common side effects include bruising, tenderness, mild local reactions, pain, hematoma (internal bleeding causing swelling), skin redness, and nodules (small, firm bumps at the injection site). Mild pain or bruising at the injection site is normal. However, redness, pain, warmth, swelling, discoloration of the skin, or discharge from an old injection site, or fever may indicate a skin reaction or infection. If you notice any of these symptoms at a previous injection site, contact your doctor immediately.

Precautions
    1. Individuals with allergies
    2. People with active bleeding
    3. Patients with low platelet counts
    4. Use with caution in patients with high blood pressure.