Health News

When Patients on Blood Thinners Have a Stroke
Although lifesavers in many cases, anticoagulants can cause dangerous bleeding. Reversing that problem, however, may now be easier than ever before.
How to Choose an Anticoagulant
If you need to take an anticoagulant — popularly known as a blood thinner — you don’t want it to cause bleeding, but some might raise your bleeding risk. 
Abnormal Heartbeat Rx May Pose Major Bleeding Risk
When the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved dabigatran in 2010, it highlighted the medication's ability to prevent stroke. Since then, some have raised concerns that the blood-thinning medication may cause severe bleeding.
Reports Claim Drug Company Withheld Important Safety Information
The maker of a new anti-clotting medication may have withheld important safety information from regulators, according to several new reports.
GI Bleeding Higher in Pradaxa vs. Warfarin
The prescription blood-thinners Pradaxa (dabigatran) and warfarin aim to reduce stroke and other cardiovascular disorders, but like most medications, they do carry some risks.
Blood Thinners Recommended for AFib Patients
People with atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, face a high likelihood of stroke. To reduce the risk, the American Academy of Neurology recommends taking anticoagulants.
Dabigatran a Danger for Mechanical Valves?
Some patients with weak heart valves opt to get an artificial valve to improve heart function. These valves require lifelong anticlotting medication, but some medications may be more effective than others.
Rx for Arrhythmia Shortens Hospital Stay
The average price for a day in the hospital can be close to $4,000. So anything that can safely reduce hospital days would be welcome by both patients and insurers.
Does Stroke Rx Cause Excess Bleeding?
People with abnormal heart rhythms are at a higher risk of getting blood clots, which can cause a stroke. A blood-thinning medication may help. But some questions remain if these medications cause the bleeding.
Rx Busts Clots with Less Bleeding
Blood clots are very serious business that require treatment. But clot-busting medication can sometimes cause bleeding problems. Fortunately, a new medication may reduce bleeding side effects.