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Heparin Treatments for Acute Coronary Syndrome

Am Fam Physician. 2006 Mar 1;73(5):890.

Clinical Question: Is the low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) enoxaparin (Lovenox) more effective than unfractionated heparin in the management of acute coronary syndromes?

Setting: Inpatient (any location) with outpatient follow-up

Study Design: Randomized controlled trial (double-blinded)

Allocation: Uncertain

Synopsis: Previous studies show that LMWH and unfractionated heparin are similarly effective at 30 days of follow-up in the treatment of high-risk patients with acute coronary syndromes. The investigators reported the follow-up for more than 96 percent of 9,978 patients with acute coronary syndromes at six months and one year. The patients received enoxaparin or unfractionated heparin (uncertain allocation concealment) with standard therapy, including aspirin and clopidogrel (Plavix) when indicated. All analyses are based on intention to treat. All-cause death at one year, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and rehospitalization occurred at a similar rate in patients receiving enoxaparin and unfractionated heparin.

Bottom Line: The LMWH enoxaparin is no more effective than unfractionated heparin in the treatment of patients with acute coronary syndromes. (Level of Evidence: 1b)

Copyright © 2006 by the American Academy of Family Physicians.
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