Anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are often called blood thinners. They help prevent blood clots from forming and growing and reduce your risk for heart attack, stroke and blockages in your arteries and veins. They cannot, however, break up blood clots that are already formed. Anticoagulants help prevent blood clots and are often taken by people who have artificial heart valves, have had a heart attack or have other heart diseases, such as cardiomyopathy, that increase your risk of developing blood clots.

How does it work?
Although they are often called blood thinners, anticoagulants do not really thin your blood, but decrease its ability to clot (coagulate). Reducing the likelihood of clotting means fewer harmful blood clots will form so that they do not potentially block your blood vessels, causing a heart attack or stroke.

How should I take it?
Anticoagulants are available in several forms. They can be taken as tablets or given by injection or intravenously (by IV). Because anticoagulants delay clotting, their major side effect is unwanted bleeding. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how and when to take your medication.

What are the main types of anticoagulants?
Warfarin is an anticoagulant that may be used to prevent blood clots in areas where the blood flow is at its slowest, such as in the leg and pelvic veins. Full effects are not seen for two to three days.

Heparin is a protein that is given to prevent blood clots from forming or to help eliminate existing blood clots (particularly clots in the veins). It is given by injection or drip into the vein (intravenously), or by injection under the skin. Unlike warfarin, heparin takes effect very quickly.

What should I avoid while taking this medicine?
Avoid smoking and limit your use of alcohol. Also, try to avoid cutting yourself. Use an electric shaver and soft-bristled toothbrush. Youll also want to floss gently and wear gloves while gardening. If you need surgery (even a simple surgical procedure) or dental extraction, inform your surgeon or dentist that you are taking an anticoagulant. Talk to your dentist or doctor about whether you should consider delaying non-essential dental work until your treatment is finished.

What if I am taking other medicines?
Because anticoagulants interact with many other common drugs, always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication including prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter or natural health products (vitamins and minerals, herbal remedies, homeopathic medicines, traditional medicines such as traditional Chinese medicines, probiotics and other products like amino acids and essential fatty acids).

What else should I tell my doctor?
If medical or dental treatment cannot be avoided, be sure to tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking anticoagulants.

What are some common side effects?
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any physical changes or side effects.

Lifestyle changes
Eating a healthy diet that is lower in fat, especially saturated and trans fats, being smoke free, limiting alcohol use, being physically active and reducing stress are also important in lowering the risk of heart disease. Talk to your health-care practitioner about how you can achieve these lifestyle changes.

Where can I get more information?
For warnings, recalls and other clinical drug information:

1. Health Canada Drugs and Health Products http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/prodpharma/index_e.html
2. Drugs and Health Products: Advisories, Warnings and Recalls http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/medeff/advisories-avis/index_e.html

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