Medicines Used for Blood clots
A blood clot is a lump of clotted blood that can block a blood vessel. A clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg, is called deep vein thrombosis, and if it travels to the lungs it is called a pulmonary embolism, which is an emergency. Doctors treat and prevent clots with medicines called anticoagulants. Anyone with a swollen, painful leg or sudden breathlessness should get medical help.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
Medicines used for Blood clots
These active ingredients are in medicines whose approved uses include Blood clots. Brands are listed A to Z, not ranked. A doctor or pharmacist decides which medicine is right for you.
Rivaroxaban
- Xarelto 20 · 20 mg tablet
Warfarin
- Uniwarfin 5 · 5 mg tablet
Common questions
What are the signs of a clot in the leg?
Throbbing pain and swelling in one leg, usually the calf, with red, blue or darker skin and swollen veins. Get medical help quickly if you suspect one. Do not massage the leg.
When is a blood clot an emergency?
Chest pain or sudden shortness of breath, especially with leg symptoms, can mean a clot in the lung. Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. Do not drive yourself.
What raises the risk of clots?
Recent surgery or a hospital stay, long bed rest or long journeys, pregnancy, smoking, being overweight, cancer, heart failure, dehydration and some hormone medicines. Sometimes there is no clear cause. Ask your doctor about your own risk.
Sources
- Blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). NHS (UK)
- Warfarin: an anticoagulant medicine. NHS (UK)
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto): a medicine to prevent blood clots. NHS (UK)
- Xarelto (rivaroxaban): EPAR medicine overview. European Medicines Agency