Are my mother’s deep vein thrombosis medications safe?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother is suffering from DVT, which was diagnosed just yesterday. I want a second opinion on her treatment and Doppler results. The doctor said that there is no need to admit her to the hospital, and he prescribed Rivaroxaban 15 mg twice daily for 21 days along with Ibuprofen 400 mg. Also, an injection of Enoxaparin Sodium was given. Esomeprazole was given to prevent upset stomach, and a microfiber cloth stocking was given to wear from morning until bedtime.

I am worried about the number of clots in her leg. Are the treatment and medications given optimal? How long will she have to take anticoagulant medication? Is she safe from pulmonary embolism now that the treatment has started? How much walking is recommended?

She is also diabetic and hypertensive and takes Glycophage 750 mg and Concor 2.5.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. The following are the answers to your questions.

Yes, your mother has been put on the best anticoagulant medication. Rivaroxaban and Apixaban are the best oral anticoagulant drugs. Enoxaparin is an injectable anticoagulant drug used to treat blood clots. So, given treatment is the best and optimum.

She needs to take Rivaroxaban for at least three months. Some doctors prefer to use it for six months. After 21 days, the Rivaroxaban dose has to be changed to 20 mg once a day.

Pulmonary embolism has to be ruled out by CT (computerized tomography), pulmonary angiography and D-dimer. If it is not developed with medication, pulmonary embolism can be prevented. Advise her to do only mild to moderate degree exercise. Ask her to walk only for 30 minutes maximum.

Additionally, I want to say that her HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) is high. So treat her diabetes as well after consulting your doctor.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.