Patient Information

You are currently taking an anticoagulant medication which thins your blood, these are often referred to as ‘DOACs’ and can include apixaban, rivaroxaban, edoxaban and dabigatran.

This is an effective treatment for conditions such as deep-vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and atrial fibrillation, but it can some have side effects which you need to be aware of. 

Bleeding is the most common side effect of DOACs, as they increase the time it takes for your blood to clot. If you cut yourself, apply pressure as you normally would. It may take longer for the wound to stop bleeding. If the bleeding does not stop within 10 minutes, go to your nearest Emergency Department (A&E). Please make sure you tell the person treating you that you are taking an anticoagulant.

Please seek medical advice immediately if you suffer a significant blow to the head or have been involved in an accident, or if you have any of the following:

• Prolonged nosebleeds (over 10 minutes)
• Unusual headaches
• Blood in your urine, stools, vomit or black stools
• Unexplained or severe bruising.
• Coughing up blood
• Heavy bleeding during a period or other vaginal bleeding

You must let other healthcare professionals treating you know that you are taking a DOAC. This includes anyone who prescribes you medication or carries out a procedure, for example, a dentist. 

Please carry with you the alert card which comes in the box of medication. 

You should limit the amount of alcohol that you drink to a maximum of one or two units in any day and never binge drink. Ideally, try to avoid activities that may cause abrasion, bruising, or cuts (for example, contact sports). Other activities (for example, gardening or sewing) can put you at risk of cuts. Do be careful and wear appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves when gardening.

As other medicines may interact with DOACs, it is important that you check with a pharmacist before starting any new medicines or stopping any existing ones. You should avoid taking any other medicines that may increase your risk of bleeding (such as aspirin or ibuprofen), unless your prescriber has specifically prescribed them for you.

You are required to have a regular blood test whilst on an anticoagulant – the frequency of this depends on your age and kidney function, but this is required at least once per year as a minimum. Please ensure you book an appointment for a blood test when invited, as it is important we monitor your full blood count, liver and kidneys whilst taking this medication.  

If you have any queries or concerns, please contact the surgery in the usual way.