Antithrombotic medications play a vital role in managing hypercoagulable states and preventing thromboembolic events in veterinary patients.
While identifying at-risk patients for thromboembolism is crucial, there is a notable underutilisation of antithrombotic medications in veterinary practice. Challenges such as diagnostic complexities, cost barriers, and limited evidence contribute to this trend. Understanding the mechanism of haemostasis and targets for antithrombotic medications is essential for effective treatment.
Primary haemostasis involves platelet plug formation, while secondary haemostasis entails the coagulation cascade, including intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Various drugs target different stages of haemostasis, including clopidogrel, rivaroxaban, and heparin. It is crucial to acknowledge potential adverse effects, such as bleeding and gastrointestinal upset, associated with these medications. Careful patient selection, monitoring, and dose adjustment are essential to mitigate risks and optimise therapeutic outcomes.
While identifying at-risk patients for thromboembolism is crucial, there is a notable underutilisation of antithrombotic medications in veterinary practice. Challenges such as diagnostic complexities, cost barriers, and limited evidence contribute to this trend. Understanding the mechanism of haemostasis and targets for antithrombotic medications is essential for effective treatment.
Primary haemostasis involves platelet plug formation, while secondary haemostasis entails the coagulation cascade, including intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Various drugs target different stages of haemostasis, including clopidogrel, rivaroxaban, and heparin. It is crucial to acknowledge potential adverse effects, such as bleeding and gastrointestinal upset, associated with these medications. Careful patient selection, monitoring, and dose adjustment are essential to mitigate risks and optimise therapeutic outcomes.
