A category of medications employed in the management and prophylaxis of abnormal blood coagulation, as well as in the treatment of thrombosis, stroke, and transient ischemic attack (brief episodes of stroke symptoms lasting less than 24 hours). Anticoagulant drugs are also administered over an extended period to forestall abnormal blood clot formation subsequent to major surgical procedures (particularly heart valve replacement) or during hemodialysis.
The prevailing anticoagulants consist primarily of heparin and the more recent heparin-derived medications, including tinzaparin, all of which necessitate administration via injection, while warfarin is administered orally. Typically, heparin is administered initially and subsequently discontinued once the therapeutic efficacy of warfarin has been achieved.
Anticoagulant medications diminish the activity of specific enzymes called blood clotting factors that are essential for the process of blood coagulation. It is important to note that anticoagulants do not dissolve pre-existing blood clots, which can be addressed with thrombolytic drugs. However, they can assist in stabilizing an existing clot, thereby reducing the risk of its detachment and subsequent embolism, which refers to the blockage of an artery by a blood clot.
The administration of excessive doses of warfarin or its concurrent usage with other medications like aspirin and alcohol can heighten the potential for undesired bleeding. To ensure safety, regular monitoring through blood-clotting tests is imperative.
It is crucial to seek guidance from a medical professional before initiating the use of any additional medication while undergoing anticoagulant treatment.