ICU-USA

Examples

Aspirin - Aspirin reduces the risk of heart attack or repeat heart attack in those with coronary artery disease. It also decreases the risk of stroke in those with a prior stroke or warning signs of a stroke.

Heparin - Heparin is a commonly used drug that decreases blood clotting. It is used in a wide variety of circumstances when dangerous blood clotting has occurred or is likely to occur. Examples include blood clots in the veins of the legs, blood clots in the lungs, blood clots in the heart.

Warfarin - Warfarin is a commonly used drug that decreases blood clotting. It is used in a wide variety of circumstances where dangerous blood clotting has occurred or is likely to occur. Examples include blood clots in the veins of the legs, blood clots in the lungs, blood clots in the heart.

What are anticoagulant drugs?

These drugs interfere with the body's clotting system and make the blood clot less easily. They do not dissolve clots but may prevent more clots from forming.

Why are they given?

The doctor determines that the patient has a blood clot or is at risk to develop a blood clot that may cause harm to the patient.

How long are they used?

Sometimes these medicines may only need to be taken for a few hours. Under different circumstances, the patient may require them indefinitely.

Do they have side effects?

Side effects do occur and the most worrisome is excessive bleeding. The doctors and nurses monitor the patient closely for sign or symptoms of bleeding. If the patient develops excessive bleeding the nurse and doctor will treat the patient immediately.