MoA: binds & activates antithrombin III → inactivates IIa, Xa (first two = serine proteases; also VIIa, IXa, XIa, XIIa).

• Inactivation of FIIa: needs both heparin + ATIII.
• Inactivation of FXa: needs only ATIII activated by heparin.
• Note: inactivation is equal for both factors.

Indications: VTE, ACS, thromboembolism, DIC, prophylaxis

Contraindications:

• Active bleeding state
• Hepatic impairment or disease

Route/Freq: IV bolus or SC bd

Desired effect: IV = instant; SC = w/in 1hr. Good in pregnancy  too large to pass.

Side effect: thrombocytopaenia, hypersensitivity, hyperkalaemia