My Doctor Said My Medicines Can Cause Bleeding…Are There Other Side Effects I Should Know About?

Blood thinners and antiplatelet medications help reduce the risk of dangerous blood clots, but like all medicines, they can have side effects. Many people are aware that bleeding risks are a common side effect, but did you know these medications can also cause other symptoms? Understanding what to expect can help you manage any side effects effectively.

Understanding Side Effects of Blood Thinners

When starting any new medication, side effects are possible. These symptoms occur due to the medicine itself, not the underlying blood clotting condition being treated.

Why Do Blood Thinners Increase Bleeding?

The most common side effect of anticoagulants and antiplatelets is an increased risk of bleeding.

• Some people may experience easy bruising or frequent nosebleeds, also known as “nuisance bleeding” or “patient-relevant bleeding.”

• These side effects can occur in up to 75% of people taking blood thinners.

Your doctor and healthcare team can provide strategies to help reduce and manage bleeding risks.

Which Medicines Are Used to Treat Blood Clotting Conditions?

There are two main types of blood clot prevention medications:

Common Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)

• Warfarin (Jantoven®)

• Apixaban (Eliquis®)

• Rivaroxaban (Xarelto®)

• Dabigatran (Pradaxa®)

• Edoxaban (Savaysa®)

Common Antiplatelet Medications

• Aspirin

• Clopidogrel (Plavix®)

• Ticagrelor (Brilinta®)

• Prasugrel (Effient®)

While these medicines work differently, many of their side effects overlap.

Other Potential Side Effects of Blood Thinners

Side Effects of Anticoagulants

In addition to bleeding, anticoagulants may also cause:

• Indigestion

• Dizziness

• Headaches

• Itchy skin

• Constipation or diarrhea

Some patients may also experience:

• Hair loss

• Feeling cold

• Burning or prickling sensations in the skin

Side Effects of Antiplatelet Medications

Like anticoagulants, antiplatelets increase bleeding risk. Additional side effects may include:

• Shortness of breath

• Upset stomach

• Chest pain

• Stomach pain

• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe or unusual side effects, such as excessive bleeding, chest pain, or dizziness, call your doctor or visit the emergency department immediately.

What Else Should I Know About My Medications?

When prescribing blood thinners or antiplatelets, your doctor will review possible side effects and interactions with:

• Other medications

• Foods

• Supplements

Why Are Drug Interactions Important?

• Interactions can increase or decrease the effectiveness of your medicine.

• Some combinations may increase side effects or cause unexpected reactions.

Always inform your doctor and healthcare team about any new or discontinued medications, including over-the-counter supplements.

Tips for Managing Your Medications Safely

• Keep an updated list of all your medications, including supplements and over-the-counter drugs.

• Use the same pharmacy to fill prescriptions whenever possible.

• Talk to your pharmacist or doctor if you have concerns about medication costs.

• Take notes during doctor visits regarding medication instructions.

• Use a pill organizer to track doses.

• Set a daily reminder to ensure you take your medicine on time.

Final Thoughts

Blood thinners are essential for preventing dangerous clots, but they can cause side effects beyond bleeding. Understanding potential reactions and discussing concerns with your doctor can help you stay safe and manage your condition effectively.

If you have questions about your medications, speak with your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare team. Always follow your prescribed treatment plan for the best results.