RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Low molecular weight heparins for venous thromboembolism JF Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin JO Drug Ther Bull FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 25 OP 29 DO 10.1136/dtb.1998.36425 VO 36 IS 4 YR 1998 UL http://dtb.bmj.com/content/36/4/25.abstract AB Relevant BNF section: 2.8.1Five years ago, we concluded that in patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery, prophylactic use of a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) gave greater protection against deep vein thrombosis (DVT) than did conventional unfractionated heparin (UFH).1 The risk of bleeding appeared to be the same. It was unclear whether the clinical advantages of the LMWHs offset their greater cost. In the UK, four LMWHs (â–¼certoparin, dalteparin, enoxaparin and tinzaparin) are now licensed for prophylaxis against venous thromboembolism during or after surgery; a fifth (nadroparin) is licensed but not yet marketed in the UK. Dalteparin, enoxaparin and tinzaparin are licensed for the treatment of DVT. Additionally, tinzaparin is licensed for the treatment of pulmonary embolism (PE). Here, we review the use of LMWHs for these indications.