Venous Thromboembolism

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an umbrella term for two related conditions: deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), where a clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg, and pulmonary embolism (PE), where part of that clot breaks off and blocks a blood vessel in the lungs. Long-haul flights across Asia, prolonged bed rest after surgery, and certain inherited clotting tendencies all raise the risk.

Medicines used to treat Venous Thromboembolism

Eliquis

Apixaban

2.5 · 5mg

Utilized for stroke prevention to mitigate clotting risks.

From $0.43 / tablet View

Pradaxa

Dabigatran

150mg

Intended to alleviate the risk of stroke and systemic embolism in atrial fibrillation.

From $6.07 / capsule View

Recognising and managing VTE

DVT typically causes swelling, warmth, and aching pain in one leg. PE is more urgent: sudden breathlessness, chest pain, or coughing up blood require emergency care immediately, do not wait. These are red-flag symptoms that warrant calling an ambulance or going straight to hospital.

Once diagnosed, treatment centres on anticoagulants to stop the clot growing and to reduce the risk of a new one. Oral anticoagulants have largely replaced older options in routine care. Apixaban and dabigatran are direct-acting agents that work without the dietary restrictions associated with warfarin. Both belong to the broader heart and blood pressure treatment group. Treatment duration depends on whether the clot had a clear trigger (such as surgery) or arose without an obvious cause, with the latter often requiring longer-term anticoagulation.