Final answer:
Target specific oral anticoagulants like dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban are used for anti-thrombotic therapy in patients with cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, unstable angina, and ischemic strokes. They work by opposing coagulation, thereby preventing the progression of thrombotic events. Pharmacogenomics can tailor anticoagulant dosing to individual patients to avoid overdose and optimize efficacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Target specific oral anticoagulants (e.g., dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban) are approved for anti-thrombotic therapy in patients with conditions such as heart attack, unstable angina, ischemic strokes, TIA (transient ischemic attacks), and other forms of cardiovascular disease. These medications help prevent the clots from becoming larger and causing more serious problems and are often prescribed to prevent a first or recurrent stroke.
Rivaroxaban (Xarelto), dabigatran (Pradaxa), and apixaban (Eliquis) are part of a class of drugs that act as anticoagulants by opposing coagulation, limiting the process to the region of injury, and restoring normal blood flow. Additionally, pharmacogenomics can assist patients in preventing an overdose of drugs like warfarin (Coumadin), especially in those with varying liver functions, by tailoring medication to the patient's genetic profile.
An anticoagulant substance, such as heparin, that opposes coagulation, works in the body by inactivating clotting factors like factor X and preventing the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin. Heparin is used therapeutically, often in surgical patients at risk for blood clots, and might be preferred in some special populations, such as pregnant women when warfarin poses a risk to the fetus. Other medications like warfarin can also prevent excessive blood clotting in patients at risk of another stroke or heart attack.