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Fondaparinux Coupon - Fondaparinux 7.5mg/0.6ml syringe

fondaparinux

Generic Arixtra
Used for Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism
Used for Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism

Fondaparinux (also known by its brand name, Arixtra) is an anticoagulant (or blood thinner) that's used to prevent and treat blood clots in adults. It stops proteins in your body that typically help clot blood from working. Fondaparinux (Arixtra) is given as an injection under the skin once per day. The dosage typically depends on why you need fondaparinux (Arixtra) and your body weight. The most common side effect is bleeding.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on January 10, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Fondaparinux (Arixtra)?

What is Fondaparinux (Arixtra) used for?

How Fondaparinux (Arixtra) works

Fondaparinux (Arixtra) is an anticoagulant (or blood thinner). It blocks a protein called factor Xa that normally helps make clots and stop any bleeding. By blocking factor Xa, fondaparinux (Arixtra) helps prevent blood clots from forming in your body.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsArixtra
Drug ClassAnticoagulant
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Fondaparinux (Arixtra)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Bleeding
  • Irritation around the injection site (e.g., bleeding, rash, itching)

Other Side Effects

  • Bruising
  • Anemia (low red blood cell count)
  • Dizziness
  • Low blood pressure
  • Confusion

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe bleeding: feeling faint, lightheaded, or dizzy; vomiting blood; bloody or dark-colored stools; severe stomach pain or discomfort
  • Blood clots due to stopping fondaparinux (Arixtra) too soon: in leg or arm (e.g., swelling or redness in arms or legs, skin that's warm to touch); in lungs (e.g., trouble breathing, chest pain, cough, irregular heartbeat)
  • Serious allergic reaction: rash; trouble breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; vomiting; chills; fever

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Pale skin

troubled breathing with exertion

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

Black, tarry stools

bladder pain

bleeding gums

blood in the urine or stools

blurred vision

chest pain

chills

collection of blood under the skin

confusion

convulsions

cough

decreased or cloudy urine

deep, dark purple bruise

difficult, burning, or painful urination

dizziness

dry mouth

fainting or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position

fever

frequent urge to urinate

increased thirst

irregular heartbeat

itching, pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site

loss of appetite

lower back or side pain

muscle pain or cramps

nausea or vomiting

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

pinpoint red spots on the skin

red, tender, or oozing skin at incision

shortness of breath

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

sudden sweating

Incidence not known

Back pain

bowel or bladder dysfunction

difficulty with swallowing

fast heartbeat

hives, itching, or skin rash

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

leg weakness

numbness

paralysis

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

tightness in the chest

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Abdominal or stomach pain or swelling

bruising or purple areas on the skin

coughing up blood

decreased alertness

headache

joint pain or swelling

nosebleeds

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Difficulty having a bowel movement

swelling

trouble sleeping

Less common

Acid or sour stomach

belching

diarrhea

heartburn

indigestion

pain

skin blisters

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

tightness in the chest

unusual changes to site of surgery

wound drainage, increased

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Fondaparinux (Arixtra)

thumbs-up

Pros

Only need to use once a day

Good option if you have a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) or can't use heparin for any other reason

Comes in prepackaged syringes for easy administration

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Must inject into the skin, which can be uncomfortable

Can raise your risk for bleeding

Can't use to prevent clots if you weigh less than 110 lbs

Not a good option if you have severe kidney problems

No antidote (reversal agent) currently available, so serious bleeds from the medication might be harder to treat

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Fondaparinux (Arixtra)

pharmacist

  • Be sure to follow up with your provider so you can be properly monitored while you're taking fondaparinux (Arixtra). Also, set reminders for your daily fondaparinux (Arixtra) injections so you don't miss any doses. This will keep your risk for blood clots low.

    • Fondaparinux (Arixtra) can make it easier for you to bruise or bleed. It can also make it take longer for your body to stop any bleeding. Call your provider if you have any unusual bleeding (e.g., blood in urine or stool, coughing up blood, vomiting blood) or bruising while you're taking this medication.

      • Let your surgeon or dentist know that you're taking fondaparinux (Arixtra) before any surgery or procedure gets scheduled. There might be specific instructions around the time of your scheduled procedure about when to stop using fondaparinux (Arixtra) to prevent serious bleeding complications.

        • Get medical help right away if you fall and hit your head hard, especially if you also feel dizzy or have a severe headache. You might need a head scan to see whether you have a brain bleed.

          Tips for using fondaparinux (Arixtra) at home:

          • Carefully read the directions for use so you can inject fondaparinux (Arixtra) at home safely and properly. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you have any questions.

            • Make sure you know which strength and dose of fondaparinux (Arixtra) you have to prevent medication errors because the medication comes in many different strengths. Not using the proper strength or dose can raise your risk for blood clots or bleeding. Contact your provider or pharmacist if you're not sure of your dose.

              • Before you inject fondaparinux (Arixtra), always check to make sure the medication is clear and colorless. Don't use it if it's cloudy, discolored, or has many particles (solid chunks). Use a new fondaparinux (Arixtra) syringe, or call your provider or pharmacist to see whether you can get a replacement.

                • Inject fondaparinux (Arixtra) into the fat tissue under the skin of your stomach at least 2 inches away from your belly button. Always choose a different injection site for each dose. Repeated injections into the same area can cause pain and damaged skin. Never inject fondaparinux (Arixtra) into your muscle or vein.

                  • After each fondaparinux (Arixtra) injection, throw away your used syringe and needle in a sharps container or something made of heavy-duty plastic (e.g., laundry detergent bottle). This lowers the risk of needle-stick injuries. Don't throw them away in your trash can. Learn more about how to throw away your sharps on the FDA's website.

                    • Store fondaparinux (Arixtra) at room temperature. Don't put the medication into the refrigerator.

                      faqs

                      Frequently asked questions about Fondaparinux (Arixtra)

                      Can I take fondaparinux (Arixtra) if I have a pork allergy?
                      Yes, you can safely use fondaparinux (Arixtra) if you can't have pork or are allergic to pork products. Unlike another blood thinner called heparin, fondaparinux (Arixtra) isn't made from pork products.
                      Is fondaparinux (Arixtra) heparin?
                      No. Fondaparinux (Arixtra) is a lab-made version of a part of heparin, so it has a very similar structure to heparin and has similar properties as heparin. But fondaparinux (Arixtra) and heparin are two different medications. Both are injectable blood thinners that are given under the skin in the stomach, but heparin can also be given as an injection into the veins (IV) for certain situations. Also, fondaparinux (Arixtra) is given once per day, whereas heparin is given multiple times per day or as a continuous IV infusion. Because fondaparinux (Arixtra) isn't a type of heparin, it's a reasonable choice for people who are allergic to or can't use heparin products.
                      When do you stop fondaparinux (Arixtra) before surgery?
                      Ask your provider if and when you should stop taking fondaparinux (Arixtra) before a surgery or procedure. This is because it'll probably depend on the type of surgery and your risk for bleeding and clotting. For example, it's generally recommended to stop using fondaparinux (Arixtra) about 36 to 42 hours before brain or spinal cord surgery. Since it takes about 5 days for most of fondaparinux (Arixtra) to leave your body (based on the medication's half-life), your provider might ask you to stop taking fondaparinux (Arixtra) for a few days before your surgery.
                      Is there an antidote for fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
                      No, there isn't a specific antidote or reversal agent for fondaparinux (Arixtra). Current recommendations for treating a bleed caused by fondaparinux (Arixtra) is to use a medication called FEIBA, which replaces the clotting factors that are blocked by the medication to stop bleeding. It's important to contact your provider or seek medical help if you fall and hit your head or if you have signs of unusual bleeding, such as a bruise that gets larger over time, a cut that doesn't heal, or bleeding gums from brushing your teeth that doesn't stop.
                      What's the difference between fondaparinux (Arixtra) and enoxaparin?
                      Both fondaparinux (Arixtra) and enoxaparin (Lovenox) are injectable blood thinners, but they're two completely different medications. Fondaparinux (Arixtra) is a lab-made version of a part of heparin, whereas enoxaparin (Lovenox) is a type of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). While the two medications are both related to heparin, they work a little differently to prevent and treat blood clots. One big difference is that enoxaparin (Lovenox) can't be used by someone who's allergic to heparin, whereas fondaparinux (Arixtra) can. Additionally, fondaparinux (Arixtra) is typically injected under the skin once per day, whereas enoxaparin (Lovenox) is injected under the skin twice per day most times (sometimes once per day in certain cases).
                      How do you administer fondaparinux (Arixtra)?
                      Fondaparinux (Arixtra) is administered as an injection under the skin in the lower stomach, at least 2 inches below your belly button. Once you remove the needle shield, gently pinch the cleaned skin in your stomach area with your thumb and index finger to form a skin fold. Insert the needle straight into the skin fold at a 90-degree angle. Press the plunger of the syringe down to deliver the dose. Then, keep your finger on the plunger as you remove the syringe from the injection site. Throw the used syringe away in a sharps container. Alternate injection sites each time you use fondaparinux (Arixtra) to avoid pain or damage to your skin. Never inject the medication through clothes or into skin that's damaged, bruised, or scarred.
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                      What are the risks and warnings for Fondaparinux (Arixtra)?

                      Fondaparinux (Arixtra) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                      risk-warning

                      Risk of bleeding around the spinal cord during other injections near the spine

                      • Risk factors: Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) | Getting anesthesia near the spine (epidural or spinal anesthesia) | History of spinal surgery, spinal taps, spine problems, or epidurals | Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other blood thinners

                        You're at a greater risk of bleeding around your spinal cord if you're taking fondaparinux (Arixtra) and need to have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) or get an epidural. Sometimes, this spinal bleeding can cause nerve damage and possibly make you paralyzed.

                        To lower this risk, your provider will tell you when to stop taking fondaparinux (Arixtra) before your planned back surgery or procedure. If it's not possible, make sure to be aware of the signs and symptoms of spinal problems. Call your provider right away if you notice pain along your spine; tingling, a burning sensation, numbness, or weakness in your legs; or that you can't urinate or have bowel movements as usual.

                        risk-warning

                        General risk of bleeding

                        • Risk factors: Taking other medications that raise the risk for bleeds | History of bleeding problems | Kidney problems | Eye problems related to diabetes | Stomach ulcer or other problems that can cause stomach bleeding | Severely high blood pressure | Recent surgery | Weight less than 110 lbs

                          Taking fondaparinux (Arixtra) can raise your risk for bleeds. Your risk can be even higher if you're also taking other medications that can cause bleeding, if you have certain medical conditions (e.g., kidney or bleeding problems), or if you weigh less than 110 lbs.

                          If you have a serious bleed from using fondaparinux (Arixtra), your provider will need to give you treatment to stop the bleed. Let your provider know if you have a fall, head injury, or other kinds of physical injury. Your provider might need to check you for bleeding inside your body. Get medical help right away if you have a severe headache, dark or tarry stool, bleeds that are difficult to stop, or any unusual bleeding or bruising.

                          risk-warning

                          Low platelet counts

                          Fondaparinux (Arixtra) can cause your platelet count to drop. Your provider will check your platelet count with routine blood tests. Your provider might stop the medication if your levels fall below a certain amount. Since platelets help with clotting, having a low platelet count can put you at risk for bleeding and easy bruising.

                          Look out for signs of bleeding, such as bleeding that doesn't stop; bleeding gums; vomit that's bloody or that looks like coffee grounds; or black, tarry stools. Get medical help right away if you experience any of these symptoms.

                          dosage

                          Fondaparinux (Arixtra) dosage forms

                          Typical dosing for Fondaparinux (Arixtra)

                          • Prevention of DVT: The typical dose is 2.5 mg injected under the skin on your lower stomach once daily. How long you need to use the medication will depend on the type of surgery you're getting.

                          • Treatment of DVT or PE: The dose depends on your weight.

                            • Weight less than 110 lbs: The typical dose is 5 mg injected under the skin once daily.

                            • Weight 110 lbs to 220 lbs: The typical dose is 7.5 mg injected under the skin once daily.

                            • Weight greater than 220 lbs: The typical dose is 10 mg injected under the skin once daily.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Fondaparinux (Arixtra) and other drugs

                          Fondaparinux (Arixtra) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Fondaparinux (Arixtra). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          More on Fondaparinux (Arixtra) interactions

                          Heart: Mixing NSAIDs and blood thinners: man pharmacy counter 1096024894

                          7 Common Questions About Mixing NSAIDs and Blood Thinners

                          Written by Nicole E. Cieri-Hutcherson, PharmD, BCPS, NCMP

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          • Defibrotide

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          • Chondroitin
                          • Coenzyme Q10
                          • Curcumin
                          • Dong Quai
                          • Ginger
                          • Vitamin A
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                          contraindications-icon

                          Fondaparinux (Arixtra) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Fondaparinux (Arixtra) will not be safe for you to take.

                          • Severe kidney problems

                          • Active major bleeding (significant bleeding that's concerning)

                          • Bacterial infection in the heart

                          • Have low platelets and anti-platelet antibodies when fondaparinux (Arixtra) is in your system

                          • Weight less than 110 lbs

                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Fondaparinux (Arixtra)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Fondaparinux (Arixtra). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Fondaparinux (Arixtra)
                          Used for:
                          $345.52 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Xarelto (rivaroxaban)
                          Used for:

                          • Lowering the risk of stroke and blood clots in with atrial fibrillation (AFib) that isn't caused by a heart valve problem

                          • Treating blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis (DVT)) or lungs (pulmonary embolism (PE))

                          • Lowering the risk of blood clots from happening again in the legs (DVT) or lungs (PE) in certain people who are at high risk for clots

                          • Preventing blood clots in the legs (DVT) or lungs (PE) in people who've had recent hip or knee surgery, those who are hospitalized, or those who were recently released from the hospital and are at high risk for blood clots

                          • Lowering the risk of serious heart-related problems, such as heart attack or stroke, in people with coronary artery disease (CAD) when used together with aspirin

                          • Lowering the risk of blood flow issues, major amputations, serious heart problems, or stroke in people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) when used together with aspirin

                          • Treating blood clots and lowering the risk of blood clots from happening again after receiving at least 5 days of treatment with injectable blood thinner medications

                          • Preventing blood clots in children ages 2 and older with a congenital heart disease (CHD) after a Fontan procedure.

                          $160.03 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Enoxaparin (Lovenox)
                          Used for:
                          $42.28 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          images

                          Fondaparinux (Arixtra) images

                          yellow - Fondaparinux Sodium 7.5mg / 0.6ml Solution for Injection
                          This medicine is Yellow Syringe.yellow - Fondaparinux Sodium 7.5mg / 0.6ml Solution for Injection
                          yellow - Fondaparinux Sodium 7.5mg / 0.6ml Solution for Injection
                          This medicine is Yellow Syringe.yellow - Fondaparinux Sodium 7.5mg / 0.6ml Solution for Injection

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Aldhaeefi, M., et al. (2023). Practical guide for anticoagulant and antiplatelet reversal in clinical practice. Pharmacy.

                          American Society of Anesthesiologists. (n.d.). Epidurals.

                          Barmore, W., et al. (2023). Biochemistry, clotting factors. StatPearls.

                          View All References (13)

                          Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Inc. (2020). Fondaparinux sodium- fondaparinux sodium injection [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Inc. (2022). Fondaparinux sodium injection [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Gutierrez, J. J. P., et al. (2023). Perioperative anticoagulation management. StatPearls.

                          Kim, H., et al. (2017). Effective method for drug injection into subcutaneous tissue. Scientific Reports.

                          MedlinePlus. (2022). Thrombocytopenia.

                          MedlinePlus. (2023). Drug-induced thrombocytopenia.

                          MedlinePlus. (2023). Lumbar puncture (spinal tap).

                          National Blood Clot Alliance. (n.d.). Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).

                          Nicolas, D., et al. (2023). Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. StatPearls.

                          Nutescu, E. A., et al. (2016). Pharmacology of anticoagulants used in the treatment of venous thromboembolism. Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis.

                          Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc. (2024). Feiba- anti-inhibitor coagulant complex kit [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Safely using sharps (needles and syringes) at home, at work and on travel.

                          Zhang, Y., et al. (2019). The clinical use of Fondaparinux: A synthetic heparin pentasaccharide. Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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