What laboratory tests reflect the anticoagulant activity of enoxaparin?

Conventional laboratory tests such as the protime, activated partial thromboplastin time, and thrombin time are not affected by low molecular weight heparin. Like unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin exerts its anticoagulant effect primarily by inhibiting activated factor X (Xa) and thrombin (IIa), but with proportionately more activity against Xa.

REFERENCES

1. Weitz JI. Low-molecular weight heparins [review] New England Journal of Medicine 1997;337(10):688-98.

2. Horlocker-TT, Heit-JA. Low molecular weight heparin: biochemistry, pharmacology, perioperative prophylaxis regimens, and guidelines for regional anesthestic management [review]. Anesth Analg 1997;85:874-85.

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