But aspirin has the most impact when you take it regularly after you finish with prescription medication that you take after DVT surgery. Some studies show that taking aspirin regularly can cut the risk of DVT clots returning by one-third without increasing the risk of bleeding. These medications sometimes can lead to severe bleeding, so doctors will make sure you are monitored closely when you take them. The most commonly used medications of this type include: Clot busters can sometimes dissolve a clot in just a few days.Ĭlot busters are taken either by IV or by a catheter inserted directly into a clot. A doctor might prescribe them if your clots from DVT are serious, causing severe swelling or blocking blood flow in your leg, and blood thinners don’t help enough. These medications are also known as thrombolytics. Make sure your doctor knows about all the medicines you take. Also remember, pregnant women shouldn’t take certain blood thinners.īlood thinners can change the way other medications work and vice versa. Brown or red coloring in your urine, bowel movements, or vomit from internal bleedingĬontact your doctor immediately if you start to have these side effects.Make sure to take your blood thinners exactly as prescribed to avoid potentially serious side effects. Many doctors believe these medications, also known as IX inhibitors, can dissolve blood clots with less risk of bleeding. Other blood thinner tablets can be prescribed and taken immediately after a DVT diagnosis, skipping the IV or injectable medications. Fondaparinux ( Arixtra), another injectableĪfter a few days, your doctor may switch you to a blood thinner in tablet or capsule form, such as:.The most prescribed of these medications are: Sometimes you will start your treatment taking blood thinners by IV or injection. In some circumstances, your doctor may want you on blood thinners for more than a few months or indefinitely. If your blood clots developed after a surgery, you may be on medication for a shorter time. Your doctor may want you to take blood thinners for 3 months or longer. They help keep clots from growing and from coming back. The most common type of DVT medication is called blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants. Reduce the chances you get new DVT clots.Prevent DVTs from breaking loose and making their way to your lungs.Regardless of what DVT medications you take, the goals for your treatment are:
If you have been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT), your doctor (often a specialist called a hematologist) will probably recommend medications to fight blood clots, and you should learn about those drugs.