A blood clot is a collection of blood that can obstruct blood vessels. Deep-vein thrombosis results when a blood clot obstructs veins in the leg. Sometimes this clot can move to the lungs and lead to a condition called a pulmonary embolism. In some instances, a blood clot can develop in the veins in the arms or groin. Fortunately, blood clots are treatable with a variety of drugs.
Heparin
Heparin, commonly sold as Hep-Pak or Hep-Lock, acts as a medication to treat blood clots. Drugs.com says that heparin is a anticoagulant medication that prevents blood clots from forming.
Heparin's more minor side effects include itching of the feet, a blue color to the skin and redness, pain, warmth or skin changes where the medicine was injected. Talk to a doctor when heparin's less serious effects last for greater than six days. Heparin's serious side effects include fever, chills, confusion, headache, balance problems, confusion and pain or swelling in one or both legs. There can also be sudden numbness or tingling on one side of the body. Call a doctor immediately when heparin causes these effects.
High blood pressure, a bleeding or clotting disorder, menstrual irregularities and stomach or intestinal disorder may require a decrease in heparin's dose. Heparin is available as an injection given every eight to 12 hours, or as prescribed.
Dalteparin
Dalteparin, commonly sold as Fragmin, is another medication used to treat blood clots. Drugs.com says that dalteparin is also an anticoagulant medication that prevents blood clot formation.
Dalteparin's less serious side effects include redness, pain and warmth at the injection site. Call a physician should these side effects last for more than a week. Dalteparin's more serious side effects include easy bleeding or bruising, coughing up blood, sudden numbness or weakness, fainting and bloody urine or stools. Sometimes, dalteparin can also lead to sweating, difficulty breathing and nausea. Call a doctor when dalteparin's serious effects develop.
Suffering from uncontrolled high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, a stroke, high blood pressure and eye problems may require an adjustment in dalteparin's dose, Dalteparin is injected daily or as prescribed.
Warfarin
Warfarin, commonly sold as Coumadin, is yet another medication that treats blood clots. This drug also acts as an anticoagulant medication (blood thinner) medication to prevent blood clots from forming.
MedlinePlus says that warfarin's less concerning side effects include pale skin, a loss of hair, chills, fatigue and gas. Talk to a physician when warfarin's less serious side effects develop. Warfarin's serious side effects include trouble breathing or swallowing, vomiting, diarrhea, joint or muscle pain and chest pain. Warfarin's additional side effects include yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea and swelling of the face, tongue, lips and eyes. Notify a doctor when warfarin's serious effects develop.
Do not take warfarin while pregnant as it can harm the unborn baby. Warfarin is a tablet taken daily.
