Overview Of Anticoagulants

Edoxaban 

Edoxaban helps reduce the risk of strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation not caused by heart valve problems. Before starting treatment with this medication, patients must have their kidney function checked. Individuals who have poor kidney function cannot safely use this drug. This is an oral medication. Patients can take it with or without food. A frequent side effect of this medicine is anemia. Potential symptoms of this include cold hands and feet, pale skin, fatigue, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. 

Like other anticoagulants, edoxaban increases the risk of bleeding. Patients taking it should be careful when brushing their teeth or shaving. They should let their doctor know right away if they develop headaches, dizziness or weakness while taking this medication. Nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or signs of blood in the urine or stool will all need urgent attention. This medication can interact with a few others. Examples include antidepressants, anti-inflammatory medicines, and other anticoagulants. 

Rivaroxaban 

Patients with peripheral artery disease or coronary artery disease may be advised to take rivaroxaban. This medication reduces the likelihood of having a stroke or heart attack. In these situations, patients will take this medication with acetylsalicylic acid. Rivaroxaban is available as a tablet. Patients with certain conditions may need to take their tablets with food. Before using this drug, patients should tell their doctor if they have ever had liver or kidney disease. Their doctor will also ask if they have an artificial heart valve. Like other blood thinners, rivaroxaban can cause easy bleeding. This is especially common in individuals who have bleeding disorders, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or stomach bleeding. Easy bleeding is more likely to occur in patients who use this medication with some other anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or antidepressants. 

During treatment with this medication, patients may develop heavy menstrual periods. They may also experience nosebleeds, bleeding gums, and blood in their urine or stool. Rarely, a spinal blood clot may form. However, this requires emergency hospitalization. In addition, patients need emergency care if they suddenly lose control of their bladder or bowels or if they notice a sensation of numbness in their lower body. These issues could be signs that a dangerous blood clot has formed in the spine. 

Apixaban 

Apixaban is frequently given to prevent blood clots after hip and knee replacement operations. However, the doctor needs to know if the patient has ever had any problems with their liver or kidneys first. This helps them make sure this medication is safe. Apixaban may need to be used with caution in individuals over eighty years old and in those who weigh less than 132 pounds. Unfortunately, potential side effects include headaches, dizziness, easy bruising, and weakness. Unusual bleeding from the nose or mouth may also occur, and the urine may be red, pink, or brown. Menstrual periods may be very heavy as well. 

In rare cases, individuals may develop a spinal blood clot during their treatment with this medication. This is especially the case if they are having a spinal tap or an epidural. Of course, this medication has several potential drug interactions. Thus, patients must review their current medications with a doctor first. Some potential drug interactions include antidepressants, anti-inflammatories, and other anticoagulants.