Treatment Options

  • Oral blood thinners are medications taken by mouth that thin the blood which decreases the chance of developing a blood clot or stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation.
  • Taking an oral blood thinner increases your risk of bleeding.
  • There are several different types of oral blood thinners. The decision on what type of blood thinner to start will be made between you and your atrial fibrillation doctor based on chance of developing a stroke or developing a bleed.
Vitamin K Antagonist Oral AnticoagulantsDirect Oral Anticoagulants
ExamplesCoumadin (i.e. Warfarin)Pradaxa (i.e.Dabigatran) , Xarelto (i.e. Rivaroxaban), Eliquis (i.e. Apixaban), Savaysa (i.e. Edoxaban)
Side EffectsIncreased chance of minor bleeding (bruising, nose bleeding, gum bleeding)
Increased chance of major bleeding including bleeding into the brainLower chance of major bleeding compared to warfarin
Lifestyle ConsiderationsRequires dietary changesDoes not require dietary changes
Requires lifelong medication usage
Consideration of activities that could cause bruising or bleeding
Requires frequent blood monitoringDoes not require blood monitoring
Medication SpecificsMany interactions with medicationsFewer interactions with medications
One dose per dayPossibly multiple doses per day
Financial ConsiderationsLow costSignificantly higher cost for certain individuals depending on level of insurance coverage
If you choose not to take a blood thinner, you may wish to discuss other options with your physician