Study: Most on Blood Thinners Get Wrong Dose

Around 75 percent of patients on two popular blood thinners may be at the risk of serious problems such as uncontrolled bleeding or developing blood clots due to improper dosage of the drugs, says a new study.

Science Daily reports millions of people suffering from coronary artery disease are prescribed one of the two blood thinning drugs, clopidogrel (Plavix) or prasugrel (Effient), to prevent strokes and heart attacks. However, a study by cardiology researchers at the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute found that the established current guidelines for dosage are not right for all patients.

The researchers found that:

• 50 percent of those on Plavix were getting too little dose, which could put them at risk of blood clots. Another 25 percent were getting too much dose, which may cause serious bleeding. Only a quarter were getting the right dose.
• 50 percent of those on Effient were being given too much drug, 25 percent too little, and only the remaining 25 percent were being given the right dose.

The researchers involved in the study also established that blood tests are better as compared to indicators such as age, gender, cholesterol levels, and history of heart problems to predict how a person will react to the blood thinning drugs.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by a dangerous drug, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a dangerous drug lawyer may be able to help you.

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