Despite the therapeutic revolution brought about by direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) over recent years, low-molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) keep on playing a major role in the antithrombotic management of numerous patients, either as alternatives to AODs or as first-line drugs. The indications for the latter include pregnancy, cancer, or venous thrombo-embolic disease prevention. After a brief summary recalling the main characteristics and properties of LMWHs, this article proposes a practical review that is primarily focused on the current indications for LMWHs and their precautions for use. The article also reminds us that not all LMWHs are to be considered as equivalent. This particularly concerns tinzaparin, exhibiting a higher molecular weight and less renal elimination, thus being an agent of choice in the treatment of venous thromboembolic disease, especially within the neoplasia context.
Key Words
Anticoagulation, heparin, tinzaparin