Anticoagulation Clinic
Overlake Medical Center's Anticoagulation Clinic provides convenient care for patients taking warfarin (Coumadin®), DOACs (direct oral anticoagulations), heparin and low molecular weight heparin. These medications, also called blood thinners, control the blood's ability to clot and are prescribed to prevent the formation of harmful clots that could lead to deep vein thrombosis or stroke. Careful monitoring can prevent bleeding and clotting complications.
Our clinic staff includes pharmacists and nurse practitioners who:
- Provide assessments.
- Review current prescription medications, over-the-counter medications and supplements to check for possible drug interactions.
- Monitor lab results.
- Adjust medication dosages as necessary.
- Communicate results with the patient and his/her physician.
- Provide patient education on the following medications:
- Warfarin Coumadin®.
- DOACs: Apixaban (Eliquis®) Dabigatran (Pradaxa®), Rivaroxaban (Xarelto®), Edoxaban, (Savaysa®).
- Heparin.
- Low Molecular Weight Heparin: Enoxaparin (Lovenox®), Dalteparin (Fragmin®), Fondaparinux (Arixtra®).
What to Expect
On your first visit to the clinic, the pharmacist or nurse practitioner will ask for your health and medical history and your current medication list. Please bring all medications you are taking, as many medications can affect the way your anticoagulant works in your body. It is also important to let the Anticoagulation Clinic staff know of any nonprescription remedies or supplements you are taking such as herbal products and vitamins, or if you are taking Coumadin® or generic warfarin. If during the course of your treatment you change from one to the other, you need to let the clinic know.
On most visits, a finger stick will be performed to obtain a drop of blood, which will be tested to determine how long it takes for your blood to clot. Occasionally, a blood draw will be required. Results of these tests are obtained on the same day, after which your dosage will be discussed.
As everyone responds differently to anticoagulation, more frequent visits may initially be needed to determine your correct dosage. Once your dosage is stabilized, an appointment will be made about every four weeks for routine monitoring.
We also monitor other anticoagulation therapies, such as DOAC agents, heparin and low molecular weight heparins.
We can also assist with managing your anticoagulation around surgical procedures. Appropriate patients may be managed through our Home INR monitoring program, subject to availability and program criteria.
Anticoagulation Clinic services are covered by most insurance plans and Medicare. If appropriate, we also provide education and training for your family.