Monitoring Blood Thinners: Why New Drugs Are Changing the Game

Published: Dec 21, 2023

Blood thinner monitoring has long been a hassle for patients on warfarin. But with new direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), the testing landscape is changing dramatically.

The Old Way: Warfarin and INR Testing

For decades, patients on warfarin needed frequent blood tests to check their INR (International Normalized Ratio). This test measures how long it takes your blood to clot. Too high, and you risk bleeding; too low, and clots could form. Patients often needed tests every few weeks to keep their INR in the right range.

The New Way: DOACs and Less Testing

DOACs like dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban work differently than warfarin. They have a more predictable effect on the body, which means most patients don't need regular blood tests to check their clotting levels. This can be a huge relief for many people, eliminating frequent trips to the lab or clinic.

New direct oral anticoagulants like dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban offer predictable effects and reduce the need for regular INR testing compared to warfarin.

When Might Testing Be Needed?

While routine testing isn't necessary for most people on DOACs, there are some situations where your doctor might want to check your blood. This could include times when you're having surgery, if you're experiencing bleeding, or if there's concern about how well your body is absorbing the medication. Special tests can measure DOAC levels if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need any blood tests before starting a DOAC? +

Yes, to check kidney function and baseline clotting.

Can regular blood tests make DOACs safer? +

Current evidence doesn't support routine testing.

How do doctors check DOAC levels if needed? +

Special tests can measure drug activity in the blood.

Are home testing options available for DOACs? +

Not currently, unlike some options for warfarin.

Key Takeaways

DOACs offer a simpler monitoring approach for many patients, but always follow your doctor's specific recommendations.

Curious about how DOAC monitoring might affect your anticoagulation therapy? Chat with Doctronic to learn more about these innovative medications and their testing requirements.

References

Gosselin RC, Adcock DM, Bates SM, et al. International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH) Recommendations for Laboratory Measurement of Direct Oral Anticoagulants. Thromb Haemost 2018; 118:437.

Dager WE, Gosselin RC, Kitchen S, Dwyre D. Dabigatran effects on the international normalized ratio, activated partial thromboplastin time, thrombin time, and fibrinogen: a multicenter, in vitro study. Ann Pharmacother 2012; 46:1627.

Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.