Market Name: Arixtra

Generic Name: Fondaparinux sodium

Arixtra is an anti-coagulant indicated for the prevention of pulmonary embolism in those undergoing hip or knee replacement, abdominal surgery, or hip fracture surgery. When delivered in combination with Warfarin Sodium, Arixtra can also be used to treat existing pulmonary embolism and deep-vein thrombosis.

Major bleeding occurred in patients receiving Arixtra after abdominal surgery, with a greater risk for those with decreased kidney function. Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) was also reported with Arixtra. The FDA added a black box warning to Arixtra’s prescribing information in May of 2005.

Black Box Warning Date: May 2005

FDA Link: Arixtra