Fondaparinux sodium in the prophylaxis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

Fondaparinux sodium is the first in a new class of anticoagulants that selectively inhibits Factor Xa. It produces a predictable pharmacologic response, obviating the need for coagulation monitoring. Additionally, this agent does not bind to platelet Factor 4, thereby reducing the risk of thrombocytopenia. Clinical trials have repeatedly demonstrated superior efficacy over other anticoagulants as venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and several cost-effectiveness studies have demonstrated cost savings with this drug.