Heparin is a prescription anticoagulant, which means that it prevents the blood from clotting. Heparin is prescribed for patients at risk of developing blood clots including those with blood, heart and lung disorders, and patients bedridden due to injury or illness. It is also sometimes used during surgery. Heparin is administered via subcutaneous or intravenous injection. According to the National Blood Clot Alliance, heparin starts to work minutes after injection; however, patients treated with heparin need to be monitored every day to ensure they are receiving the correct dose. Other types of anticoagulants are also available. A doctor will prescribe an anticoagulant based on individual need and circumstance.
Warfarin
Warfarin is a once-daily oral drug prescribed to prevent blood clots forming in the blood vessels of people who have suffered a heat attack, have an irregular heart beat or prosthetic heart valves. Common side effects include hair loss, fatigue and pale skin. MedlinePlus notes that warfarin may cause a life-threatening bleeding disorder, so is not suitable for people with a history of bleeding problems. Certain drugs, nutritional supplements and herbal products interact with Warfarin; patients taking warfarin should notify a doctor if they start taking new medications.
Argatroban
Argatroban is anticoagulant that belongs to a class of drugs known as direct thrombin inhibitors. It is administered by intravenous injection and is prescribed for patients who have heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. It works by blocking the action of the blood clotting agent, thrombin. According to RxList.com, serious bleeding is the most common serious side effect. Common side effects include nausea, fever and diarrhea. Argatroban is not suitable for patients who have recently undergone major surgery. Patients with a history of stomach and intestinal problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease, may not be able to take argatroban.
Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel is an oral anticoagulant usually prescribed to prevent clots forming in the blood vessels of patients who have recently suffered a heart attack or stroke. It works by reducing the stickiness of blood platelets--the cells that bundle together to form a blood clot. Clopidogrel is a usually taken once a day at the same time every day. Clopidogrel may cause dizziness; therefore, patients who take clopidogrel should take care when driving and operating machinery. Common side effects may include abdominal pain, bruising, bleeding and diarrhea.
