Which medication is commonly ordered for DVT prophylaxis?

Enoxaparin is a low molecular weight heparin that is widely used for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis, particularly in patients who are at increased risk for thromboembolic events. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting factor Xa and to a lesser extent factor IIa, leading to an anticoagulant effect that helps prevent the formation of blood clots in the veins.

It is often preferred for DVT prophylaxis because it has predictable pharmacokinetics, does not require routine monitoring like some other anticoagulants, and is easy to administer via subcutaneous injection. This makes it particularly suitable for hospital and outpatient settings, particularly in the context of surgeries or prolonged immobility.

Pradaxa, while an anticoagulant, is primarily used for treating and preventing strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation and does not have the same role in DVT prophylaxis as enoxaparin. Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant that requires regular monitoring for its INR levels, making it less practical for immediate DVT prophylaxis in many situations, especially in acute care settings. Heparin is also used for DVT prophylaxis, particularly in a hospital setting, but enoxaparin is