Dalteparin (dal te PAIR in) is an anticoagulant, which helps prevent blood clots from forming in the blood vessels. It does not dissolve clots, although you may hear people call it a "blood thinner." In order for this medicine to safely help your child, it must be given correctly. It is given as a shot under your skin. It starts to work within 2 hours and the effects last up to 12 hours.
It is given as a shot subcutaneously (just under the skin) once or twice a day. Give the shot in the fatty part of the skin. You will be taught how to give the shot. See the education sheet, "Injections (subcutaneous)."
Give the shot at the same time each day to keep a steady level of the medicine in the bloodstream.
Use this medicine exactly as prescribed, even if your child feels fine.
Your child should be awake and alert when taking any medicine.
While on dalteparin, DO NOT TAKE:
Check with the doctor, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist before giving any other prescription or non-prescription medicines, herbs, or vitamins.
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you remember, unless it is less than 6 hours until the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Never give a double dose.
Occasional
Rare
* Ways to prevent bleeding are:
Store at room temperature.
Tell your child's doctor if he/she uses this drug before spinal anesthesia, spinal treatment, or surgery. You and your child should know the names and doses of all medicines he or she is taking. Share this information with anyone involved in your child's care. Please bring the medicine container when your child comes to the clinic or emergency department.
Blood samples may be needed to be sure the dose is correct. Remember to schedule a blood sample just before a dose is due to be given.
Always make sure you have enough medicine on hand. Each time you refill the prescription, check to see how many refills are left. If no refills are left, the pharmacy will need 2 or 3 days to contact the clinic to renew the prescription.
Read the label before giving the first dose. Be sure it is what was prescribed. If the medicine looks different to you after a refill, ask your pharmacist about it before giving it. Store all medicines in their original containers and away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not store in humid places such as the bathroom. Keep them out of children's reach. Lock the medicine up if possible.
If too much or the wrong kind of medicine is taken, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. If your child is unconscious or has a seizure, call 911.
This is not specific to your child but provides general information. If you have any questions, please call your clinic or pharmacy.
Last reviewed by Children's pharmacy 8/2015
This page is not specific to your child, but provides general information on the topic above. If you have any questions, please call your clinic. For more reading material about this and other health topics, please call or visit Children's Minnesota Family Resource Center library, or visit www.childrensmn.org/educationmaterials.
© 2024 Children's Minnesota