What is one advantage of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) compared to standard heparin?

One advantage of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) compared to standard heparin is that it can be self-administered. This is particularly beneficial in outpatient settings, as patients can manage their dosing at home with less need for frequent healthcare visits. The ease of administration makes LMWH a more convenient option for both healthcare providers and patients, allowing for more flexibility and adherence to anticoagulation therapy.

In contrast, standard heparin often requires intravenous administration and close monitoring in a hospital or clinical setting, which limits patients' ability to administer it independently. The requirement for continuous monitoring of activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) with standard heparin complicates treatment and necessitates more frequent lab assessments, while LMWH typically does not require this level of monitoring. Additionally, LMWH has a longer half-life than standard heparin, meaning it does not necessitate as frequent dosing.