More than 2 million Americans experience an irregular and often rapid heartbeat known as “atrial fibrillation” (AF), which allows blood to pool in the heart. As a result, their risk of forming blood clots that can lead to stroke increased. For over 60 years, AF patients have been prescribed the drug warfarin (Coumadin), which acts to prevent blood clots by inhibiting the action of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. As effective as warfarin is, however, it is difficult to manage and can be influenced by a number of other medications and supplements. Fortunately, the FDA has recently approved alternative anticoagulant drugs-dabigatran (Pradaxa(, rivaroxaban (Xarelto), and apixaban (Eliquis)- that work by inhibiting either thrombin or another clotting protein called Xa.
Which, if any, AF medications are you using? At Med-Fast Pharmacy, we stay up-to-date on the latest research and studies performed, so that we may give you the best possible advice when it comes to your health. We have 13 area locations to serve you, when you’re in need of pharmaceutical expertise. We’re here to help.
HINT: The new anticoagulant drugs named above may be more expensive than Coumadin, but they are just as effective, faster acting, easier to use, and less likely to be associated with internal bleeding.
