Danaparoid

Danaparoid is a low-molecular-weight heparinoid with an average molecular weight of 5500 Daltons consisting of a mixture of glycosaminoglycans . The active constituents are heparan, dermatan and Chondroitin sulfate , and they are isolated from the porcine intestinal mucosa . Danaparoid possesses a potent antithrombic activity that works by inhibiting activated factor X (Factor Xa) and activated factor II (Factor IIa). It is chemically distinct from heparin by containing different protein binding properties, thus has lower cross-reactivity in heparin-intolerant patients. Danaproid is used in the treatment of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) as an off-label indication and prevention of post-operative deep venous thrombosis (DVT). While it was initially approved by the FDA as Orgaran™, danaparoid was withdrawn by Organon International on August 14, 2002, due to a shortage in drug substance by the manufacturer. The use of Orgaran™ was discontinued in the United States however it is available in several other countries including European countries and Japan. Danaparoid sodium is the common salt form in therapeutic preparations and is typically administered subcutaneously.