Key takeaways
Heparin (generic name: heparin) and Arixtra (generic name: fondaparinux) are both anticoagulants used to prevent and treat blood clots, but they have some key differences. Heparin is given either through the veins or under the skin and requires frequent blood tests to monitor its effectiveness. It works quickly and has an antidote called protamine in case of severe bleeding. On the other hand, Arixtra is only given as an injection under the skin once a day and does not have an antidote, making it harder to treat serious bleeds. Heparin can be used during pregnancy and is safe for people with pork allergies, while Arixtra is a good option for those who cannot use heparin due to allergies or a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Additionally, Arixtra is available as a lower-cost generic, whereas heparin does not have a brand name. Both medications can cause bleeding and require careful monitoring, but Arixtra is not suitable for people with severe kidney problems or those weighing less than 110 lbs.
