Blood Thinners
Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants) and Anti-Platelets
Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants) and Anti-Platelets
Anticoagulants for Blood Clot Prevention: Xarelto, Eliquis, Brilinta, and Pradaxa
Anticoagulants play a vital role in managing and preventing blood clots, reducing the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and atrial fibrillation (A-Fib). These medications lower the chances of stroke and other serious events by reducing blood clot formation. For U.S. patients, buying anticoagulants from Canada provides significant cost savings while maintaining access to high-quality therapies.
Overview of Anticoagulants
Xarelto (Rivaroxaban)
- Use: Xarelto is a direct oral anticoagulant used for preventing and treating DVT, PE, and A-Fib.
- How It Works: By inhibiting Factor Xa, Xarelto reduces the blood’s ability to form clots. Dosing is typically once daily, with amounts ranging from 10 mg to 20 mg, depending on the condition.
- Cost-Saving Tip: Patients can access rivaroxaban from Canada, the generic version of Xarelto, to reduce costs while receiving the same effective treatment.
Eliquis (Apixaban)
- Use: Eliquis is prescribed to lower the risk of stroke and blood clots in A-Fib patients and for treating or preventing DVT and PE.
- How It Works: Eliquis inhibits Factor Xa to prevent clot formation. Standard dosing is 5 mg twice daily, with a reduced 2.5 mg dose recommended for specific patients.
- Cost-Saving Tip: While apixaban (the active ingredient) is not yet available as a generic in the U.S., patients can order Eliquis from Canada at reduced prices compared to U.S. pharmacies.
Brilinta (Ticagrelor)
- Use: Brilinta is an antiplatelet medication for reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other heart-related complications in patients with a history of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
- How It Works: Unlike other anticoagulants, Brilinta prevents platelets from sticking together and forming clots. It is typically taken as a 90 mg dose twice daily, often alongside aspirin.
- Cost-Saving Tip: While a generic version is not widely available, patients can save significantly by purchasing Brilinta from Canadian pharmacies.
Pradaxa (Dabigatran)
- Use: Pradaxa is a direct thrombin inhibitor used for stroke prevention in A-Fib and for treating DVT and PE.
- How It Works: By blocking thrombin, Pradaxa reduces clot formation without the need for frequent blood tests. The standard dose is 150 mg twice daily.
- Cost-Saving Tip: Canada offers dabigatran in a generic form, making it a cost-effective option for long-term anticoagulation therapy.
Benefits of Buying Anticoagulants from Canada
For U.S. patients, the high cost of medications like Xarelto, Eliquis, Brilinta, and Pradaxa can be a financial burden. Purchasing from Canada offers several advantages:
- Significant Savings: Medications like rivaroxaban and dabigatran are available in generic forms, providing additional cost reductions.
- Same High Quality: Canadian pharmacies provide regulated medications, ensuring the same safety and efficacy as their U.S. counterparts.
- Convenience: Ordering through a licensed Canadian pharmacy or prescription referral service is a straightforward process, requiring only a valid U.S. prescription.
Professional Savings with Over The Border Meds
Over The Border Meds offers U.S. patients affordable access to anticoagulants, including Xarelto, Eliquis, Pradaxa, and Brilinta from Canada, without compromising quality. While manufacturer coupons are not accepted, Over The Border Meds provides discounts such as Hello10 to help make your therapy more affordable.
Managing your health doesn’t have to come at a high cost. Explore your options today and enjoy the benefits of significant savings on life-saving medications.
Anticoagulation in A-Fib, DVT, and PE
Anticoagulants are essential in managing conditions where blood clot risks are elevated, such as A-Fib, DVT, and PE:
- A-Fib: Anticoagulants like Eliquis and Xarelto are commonly prescribed to prevent strokes in patients with A-Fib, as irregular heartbeats can increase clot risks.
- DVT/PE: Xarelto and Pradaxa are effective in treating and preventing DVT and PE, reducing the risk of dangerous clots in veins or the lungs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I take Xarelto or Eliquis with other medications?
It’s essential to inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as certain medications can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with Xarelto, Eliquis, and other anticoagulants.
2. Do I need routine blood tests while taking Xarelto, Eliquis, or Pradaxa?
No, unlike warfarin, these newer anticoagulants (Xarelto, Eliquis, and Pradaxa) typically do not require routine blood monitoring. However, your doctor may still want periodic checks based on your overall health and possibly renal function.
3. What are the side effects of taking Brilinta?
Brilinta can increase the risk of bleeding and may cause shortness of breath in some patients. It’s important to notify your healthcare provider if you experience severe or unexpected side effects.
4. How does taking Pradaxa differ from other anticoagulants?
Pradaxa requires special storage to maintain effectiveness and should be kept in its original bottle. It’s also essential to take Pradaxa consistently and not skip doses, as this can increase the risk of blood clots.
5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
For medications like Xarelto and Pradaxa, it’s generally advised to take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day. However, if it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up doses. Check with your healthcare provider for specific instructions.
6. Is there a generic version available for Eliquis?
Currently, there is no generic version of Eliquis (apixaban) available in the U.S. However, significant savings may be possible when ordering Eliquis from a licensed Canadian pharmacy.
7. Can I drink alcohol while taking these anticoagulants?
Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding when taking anticoagulants. Consult your healthcare provider for specific guidelines on alcohol consumption while using Xarelto, Eliquis, Pradaxa, or Brilinta.
8. How can buying these medications from Canada save me money?
Due to regulatory differences, Canadian pricing for medications is often much lower than in the U.S. Some Canadian pharmacies also offer generic versions of these drugs, like Pradaxa (dabigatran) and Xarelto (rivaroxaban), which can lead to even more savings.
9. Are these medications safe for long-term use?
Yes, Xarelto, Eliquis, Brilinta, and Pradaxa are commonly prescribed for long-term use in managing conditions like A-Fib, DVT, and PE. However, regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for any potential side effects.
10. Can I stop taking my anticoagulant if my symptoms improve?
No, stopping anticoagulants abruptly can increase your risk of clot formation, which could lead to serious complications. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Managing these conditions with anticoagulants helps patients avoid severe complications, though adherence to the prescribed dosing schedule is crucial for effective prevention and treatment.