03 Hematology and Coagulation Medications Free Online FlashCards

How do anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and thrombolytics differ?

Anticoagulants inhibit clot formation or extension, antiplatelets reduce platelet activation and aggregation, and thrombolytics break down existing clots.

What reverses unfractionated heparin?

Protamine can reverse the anticoagulant effect of unfractionated heparin.

What monitoring and diet guidance apply to warfarin?

Warfarin is monitored with PT/INR. Patients should maintain a consistent vitamin K intake.

Are DOACs substitutes for warfarin with mechanical heart valves?

DOACs are not substitutes for warfarin in patients with mechanical heart valves.

Which medicine reverses dabigatran?

Idarucizumab reverses dabigatran in emergencies.

What commonly makes up dual antiplatelet therapy after coronary stenting?

Dual antiplatelet therapy commonly combines aspirin with a P2Y₁₂ inhibitor after acute coronary syndrome or coronary stenting.

How does aspirin reduce platelet activity?

Aspirin irreversibly inhibits platelet COX-1 and thromboxane A₂ formation.

How do thrombolytics work, and what major risk do they carry?

Thrombolytics promote plasmin formation to dissolve existing clots; they can cause major bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage.

What must brain imaging establish before stroke thrombolysis?

Brain imaging must first exclude hemorrhage before thrombolytic treatment for suspected stroke; eligibility and timing follow emergency protocols.

When is iron replacement appropriate for anemia?

Iron replacement treats confirmed iron-deficiency anemia; anemia alone is not a reason to take iron.

What important limitation applies to folic acid treatment?

Folic acid treats folate deficiency, but it does not treat B₁₂-related neurologic injury. Check for B₁₂ deficiency as well.

What do erythropoiesis-stimulating agents do, and what risk do they carry?

Epoetin alfa and darbepoetin alfa stimulate red-cell production in selected conditions, including chronic kidney disease anemia; they can increase thrombotic risk.