Dalteparin comes as as a solution (liquid) in vials and prefilled syringes to inject subcutaneously (under the skin). It is usually given once a day, but may be given twice a day for certain conditions. The length of your treatment depends on the condition that you have and how well your body responds to the medication. If you are using dalteparin to prevent DVT after surgery, it is usually given for 5 to 10 days or sometimes for up to about 1 month. If you are using dalteparin is used to prevent DVT in people who are on bedrest, you will receive the medication for 12 to 14 days. If you have cancer and dalteparin is used to treat and prevent DVT, you may need to use the medication for up to 6 months.
Dalteparin may be given to you by a nurse or other healthcare provider, or you may be told to inject the medication at home. If you will be injecting dalteparin at home, inject the medication at about the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use dalteparin exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
If you will be using dalteparin at home, a healthcare provider will show you how to inject the medication. Be sure that you understand these directions. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about where on your body you should inject dalteparin, how to give the injection, what type of syringe to use, or how to dispose of used needles and syringes after you inject the medication.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient.