Does internal medicine perform anticoagulation management?

Anticoagulation management is more than renewing a prescription. The doctor considers why you need the medicine, the dose and schedule, kidney or liver concerns, other medicines and your bleeding or clotting history. Monitoring may involve blood tests for some anticoagulants, while other medicines are assessed through symptoms, examination and selected laboratory checks. The plan may need adjustment around procedures, illness or changes in other medicines.

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed and do not change or stop it without medical advice. Keep an up-to-date list of medicines, including over-the-counter pain relievers and supplements. Tell dentists, surgeons and other clinicians that you take an anticoagulant. Ask what to do after a missed dose and which monitoring appointments are required. More detail is available in [Anticoagulation Management](/treatments/medical-management/anticoagulation-management/).

Seek urgent assessment for bleeding that does not stop, vomiting or coughing blood, black stools, a severe headache after an injury, sudden weakness or new severe breathlessness. Contact your treating team promptly about an unexpected bruise, repeated nosebleeds or a fall, even when there is no obvious wound.

What is the purpose of my anticoagulant? Do I need blood-test monitoring? Which medicines or supplements should I avoid? What is the plan before dental work or surgery?