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Over-anticoagulation, also known as excessive anticoagulation, refers to a condition where a person's blood is too thin due to an excessive dose or an inappropriate use of anticoagulant medications. Anticoagulants, also called blood thinners, are used to prevent blood clots in individuals with a history of blood clots, heart disease, stroke, or other conditions that increase the risk of blood clots. Commonly used anticoagulants include warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban.
When a person is over-anticoagulated, the risk of bleeding is increased, which can be life-threatening in severe cases. Symptoms of over-anticoagulation may include easy bruising, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, blood in the urine or stool, heavy menstrual periods, or prolonged bleeding from a cut or wound.
Over-anticoagulation can be caused by various factors, including changes in medication dosage, interactions with other medications, or changes in a person's health status, such as kidney or liver disease. Over-anticoagulation can also occur if a person does not follow their prescribed medication regimen, misses doses, or takes too much medication.
Treatment for over-anticoagulation depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may only require a decrease in the anticoagulation dose or temporary cessation of medication. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to receive blood transfusions or other medical interventions.
To prevent over-anticoagulation, it is important for individuals taking anticoagulant medications to follow their healthcare provider's instructions for dosing and monitoring, and to promptly report any symptoms of bleeding or over-anticoagulation. Close monitoring of anticoagulation levels and periodic blood tests can also help detect and prevent over-anticoagulation.