Pharmacology and special clinical applications of low-molecular-weight heparins.

In this overview, the rationale of the development of low-molecular-weight (LMW) heparins and their toxicological, anticoagulant, fibrinolytic, lipolytic, and protamine interactions are summarized. Clinical experiences are reviewed on the benefit of LMW heparin for anticoagulation in patients with bleeding and other complications on conventional anticoagulants and during pregnancy. It is concluded that animal experiments have demonstrated the safety of LMW heparins, that the pharmacologic profile is improved compared with normal heparin, and that the simple and safe applicability of LMW heparins gives rise to new indications for the long-term prophylaxis of thromboembolism.