Anticoagulant medications are used to prevent the blood from clotting or coagulating, states the American Heart Association. It is important to understand that anticoagulant medications do not dissolve blood clots that already exist. Rather, they prevent the growth progression of existing clots. These drugs are usually given to people who have a history of a heart attack or a stroke. There are a variety of anticoagulant medications available.
Dalteparin
Drugs.com explains that dalteparin is a medication used specifically to prevent blood clots from forming in the legs, veins and arteries. Dalteparin, whose brand name is Fragmin, is given as an injection in the thigh, stomach or buttocks. Dalteparin's common side effects include redness, warmth and swelling at the site dalteparin was injected. Its serious effects include weakness, easy bleeding or bruising, trouble breathing, sweating, lightheadedness, fainting and confusion. Dalteparin can also cause coughing up of blood, black or bloody stools, a headache, problems with speech or walking and pain or swelling in one or both legs.
Dalteparin should not be taken by people who are allergic to it or any other anticoagulant medications. People with low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) should not take this drug as it can actually worsen this condition. Take this medication as indicated.
Tinzaparin
Tinzaparin, whose brand name is Innohep, is used specifically in combination with warfarin to prevent blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism). Tinzaparin is an injection typically given in the stomach for as long as prescribed. Drugs.com says that its common side effects include trouble sleeping, constipation, diarrhea and back, muscle or joint pain. Tinzaparin can also cause painful urination, gas, stomach problems, a headache and dizziness. Chest pain, strange bleeding or bruising, shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, numbness or tingling, fainting and an erection that lasts for more than four hours are tinzaparin's other serious side effects.
Warfarin
Warfarin (brand name Coumadin) is specifically used to prevent blood clots from forming in prosthetic heart valves and in people who've had a heart attack. It also prevents blood clots in the veins and lungs. Warfarin is a tablet taken daily with or without food.
MedlinePlus says that warfarin's side effects include pale skin, hair loss, gas, fatigue and chills. Warfarin's serious effects include trouble breathing or swallowing, diarrhea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, a poor appetite, chest pain and a fever. In some cases, warfarin may lead to tissue or skin death (gangrene) and amputation may be necessary.
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