Anticoagulant Drugs
TERMS
□ enoxaparin (Lovenox)
□ heparin (Hep-Lock)
□ warfarin sodium (Coumadin)
QUICK LOOK AT THE CHAPTER AHEAD
Anticoagulants are used to prevent intravascular thrombosis by decreasing blood coagulability.1
Anticoagulants suppress the production of fibrin by disrupting the coagulation cascade.
Parenteral anticoagulants include the natural anticoagulant heparin, low-molecular weight heparins (LMWHs), and thrombin inhibitors. Heparin is given IV or SC, and LMWHs are given SC. Antithrombin, argatroban, bivalirudin, and lepirudin are given IV; desirudin is given SC.
LMWHs have a longer half-life than heparin, require less laboratory monitoring than heparin, and are less likely to cause thrombocytopenia.2,3
Oral anticoagulants include warfarin sodium (Coumadin), the prototype Coumarin anticoagulant. Oral anticoagulants have a delayed onset of action and are indicated for long-term prophylaxsis.4
Oral anticoagulants interact with many drugs. Warfarin sodium is also available inravenously.
Table 45-1 Anticoagulant Drugs | |||||||||||||||||||||
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ANTICOAGULANT DRUGS CLIENT TEACHING
Use a soft toothbrush for brushing teeth and safety razor (electric) for shaving.
Avoid concurrent use of OTC and herbal remedies without consulting with health care provider.
Avoid taking aspirin and NSAIDs during therapy and read labels for OTC drugs that may contain these drugs.
Report signs of bleeding or bruising (eg, nose, gums, emesis, sputum, stool, urine, bruising, severe headache).
Notify health care provider if excessive bleeding occurs with menses.
Notify health care provider, including dentist, if taking anticoagulants.
Avoid activities (eg, contact sports) that may increase the risk of bleeding or injury
Carry medication information and identification (eg, MedicAlert band).
Avoid alcohol while on anticoagulant therapy.
Avoid an increased intake of foods high in vitamin K (eg, green leafy vegetables and vitamin K supplements).
Encourage client to stop tobacco use.
Use a soft toothbrush for brushing teeth and safety razor (electric) for shaving.
Avoid concurrent use of OTC and herbal remedies without consulting with health care provider.
Avoid taking aspirin and NSAIDs during therapy and read labels for OTC drugs that may contain these drugs.
Report signs of bleeding or bruising (eg, nose, gums, emesis, sputum, stool, urine, bruising, severe headache).
Avoid alcohol while on anticoagulant therapy.
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