Antiplatelets
Make platelets less likely to stick together, reducing clot formation inside arteries.
Why it gets prescribed
Commonly prescribed after a heart attack, after a coronary stent, or after a clot-related stroke.
What to watch for
Signs of bleeding: bruising more easily, bleeding gums, black stools, red urine. Report any increase.
Stopping — read this before you stop anything
After a coronary stent, stopping this group on your own can be dangerous. Any procedure or dental extraction must be discussed with the prescriber BEFOREHAND — do not leave it to the dentist or proceduralist to decide.
Tell the prescriber and the pharmacist
Tell every dentist and every proceduralist, and mention anti-inflammatory painkillers or anticoagulants.
Worth asking
- How long must I stay on this
- Who do I ask before a dental extraction or a procedure
- How much bleeding means being seen immediately