"This blog was developed to provide medical updates that are important and have my perspective as additional insight."
Coumadin has had a virtual monopoly as an oral anticoagulant since it was first used in 1940 at Wisconsin General Hospital. Discovered accidentally when scientists investigated hemorrhaging of livestock who ate spoiled sweet clover when grazing, it took a decade to isolate dicoumarol and use it in the clinic. Initially showing success in preventing blood …
A recent analysis of the new anticoagulants to replace Coumadin (Warfarin) is looking quite favorable when treating blood clots. This is expanding their indication, usage and safety. In the U.S. the two alternatives are PRADAXA and XARELTO, with Xarelto appearing to be somewhat more advantageous with less issues from bleeding. Such alternatives are sorely needed …
Multaq is a newer medication for treating atrial fibrillation. It’s particular benefit is that it does not require a patient to go into the hospital for initiation of the medications, as many other medications in this category do require. A recent study showed that in patients on Multaq who did not ‘convert’ to normal rhythm, …