HELPING ANTICOAGULANTS WORK FOR YOU

This page has been designed by the health care professionals of Marquette General Hospital to:

· Help you understand the purpose for the use of anticoagulants

· Explain the warning signs to report to your physician at once

· List safety precautions to take when on anticoagulants

Anticoagulants are medications prescribed by your physician to help prevent your blood from forming clots. These clots can block the flow of blood to various parts of your body. Some anticoagulants are taken by mouth in pill form and some must be taken by injections (shots). While you are taking anticoagulants, you should keep in mind a few signs and safety precautions.

PRECAUTIONS

*	Take your medicine as ordered by your doctor.
*	Make and keep appointments for blood tests ordered by your physician. These tests are necessary for the doctor to evaluate how well the medicine is working to prevent clots.
*	Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other drugs without a doctor's order. Many medications will affect the action of the anticoagulants. Vitamins, cold medications, and over-the-counter drugs can be harmful and must never be taken without your doctor's permission.
*	Ask your doctor about smoking and alcohol consumption.
*	Remain on the diet your doctor recommends.
*	Check with your physician on limiting your activities.
*	If your seek medical help from another physician, or have any kind of dental work done, be sure to tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking anticoagulants.
*	If you plan to travel and may miss a doctor's appointment or blood test appointment, notify your doctor so he can make other arrangements. Be sure you have enough medication with you to cover the time you will be gone.
*	Prevent self-injury! Be careful when using knives or other harmful tools. An electric razor should be used for shaving.
*	Always carry your Emergency Anticoagulant Identification Card. Information on this card should include the name of the anticoagulant you are taking; your name and address; and your physician's name, address, and phone number.
*	Report any missed doses to your physician.

SIGNS TO REPORT AT ONCE TO YOUR PHYSICIAN

*	Bleeding from the gums.
*	Bruises or tiny pinpoint discolorations of the skin.
*	Urine that is red or brown.
*	Blood in you bowel movements or black-colored bowel movements.
*	Nosebleeds.
*	Abdominal pain.
*	Other problems such as diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, or dizziness. Various illnesses can change your body's response to anticoagulants.
*	Report pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.
*	Report any accident or other injury even if there is not bleeding you can see.

IN SUMMARY

Complications are rare, but they can occur. Be sure to:

· Follow your physician's advice and instructions.

· Be aware of signs to report.

· Learn safety precautions and abide by them.

This can minimize the chance of problems and can help anticoagulants work for you.

Additional health information is also available through the MGH Health Information Center
(906)225-4950 or 1-800-562-9753, ext.4950.

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