According to MedlinePlus, deep venous thrombosis is the medical terminology for blood clots in the legs. The large veins of the lower legs and thighs are affected. This becomes a risk factor when these clots, called embolus, travel through the bloodstream, and may cause embolism of the heart, lungs, brain, or other areas. Anticoagulation drugs are given to thin out the blood and preventing more clots from forming, but existing clots are not being dissolved by this drug. The two known medications used to dissolve blood clots in the legs are heparin and warfarin.
Heparin, Warfarin Combination
According to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, heparin is administered through Intravenous therapy or injection. Warfarin is administered by mouth, but the effect will take a few days, as compared to heparin. They can be initially administered together, but when the proper dose of warfarin is achieved, heparin is stopped. The amount and duration of warfarin differs from one individual to the other, but most patients take the drug for at least three months, and some must take it for life, MedlinePlus notes.
Warfarin
Bleeding occurs when taking warfarin and can be life threatening. It is advisable that the doctor is informed about any previous bleeding experience. A blood test can be conducted to determine the dose of warfarin that is needed. Patients need to be careful in taking other medicines, in choosing the right food to eat, and how to take warfarin in its proper dose.
Stopping Warfarin
According to MedlinePlus, the effects of warfarin may last up two to five days after stopping it. A good patient to physician relationship must be established in order for both sides to come up with the right medication plan when taking warfarin.
