What is anticoagulation?
Anticoagulation is the treatment and prevention of blood clots. These clots can block blood flow to vital areas of the body such as the heart, brain, or limbs. The most common anticoagulant prescribed is warfarin, also known as Coumadin. This medication requires close monitoring and patient education to avoid too much or too little anticoagulation, which can result in bleeding or the formation of harmful blood clots. How do I know if I need anticoagulation therapy? Anticoagulation may be prescribed by your physician if you are at risk for the formation of blood clots or have an existing blood clot.
