Enoxaparin in the prevention of deep venous thrombosis.

Enoxaparin, a low-molecular-weigth heparin, has recently been approved for use in the prevention of deep venous thrombosis following elective hip replacement surgery. Clinical trials have demonstrated enoxaparin to be superior to placebo, dextran and unfractionated heparin in deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis. However, no published studies have compared the efficacy of enoxaparin with that of warfarin in the prevention of deep venous thrombosis. Advantages of enoxaparin include less frequent dosing, reduced need for laboratory monitoring and a lower incidence of adverse effects, including hemorrhage. Although enoxaparin is more expensive than unfractionated heparin, its potential benefits may offset its higher cost.