Final answer:
Low molecular weight heparins are prescribed to prevent the formation of harmful blood clots, lower blood pressure during a hypertensive crisis, and are especially useful in preventing stroke. They are also used for various other medical conditions, including severe anemia with kidney damage and the treatment of hemophilia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) are medications that can be prescribed for various conditions related to blood clots and circulation. They act as anticoagulants, which means they help prevent the formation of harmful blood clots in the vessels. This function is critical as it may prevent clots from becoming larger and causing more serious issues such as heart attacks or strokes.
LMWHs are often used to lower blood pressure in hypertensive crisis situations and can be administered intravenously. They are frequently prescribed to prevent stroke, particularly in patients who have already had one or are at a high risk of recurrence. Moreover, compared to other anticoagulants such as warfarin, LMWHs are preferred during pregnancy due to a lower risk of causing fetal complications.
In addition to preventing blood clots, LMWHs have several other medical applications. They can be used to treat severe anemia with kidney damage, as they support the body in maintaining a suitable blood flow. These heparins are also involved in the treatment of hemophilia and in the prevention of certain infections, like hepatitis B. Lastly, the compound heparin sulfate, related to LMWHs, plays an essential role in the body, including cell adhesion and determining the charge-selectiveness of the renal glomerulus.