Tuesday, August 07, 2018 by Zoey Sky
Angiomax is an anticoagulant drug that prevents platelets in the blood from coagulating/clotting.
The drug is used to prevent unwanted blood clots that may occur if a patient has certain heart or blood vessel conditions. Angiomax can also prevent blood clots in individuals with severe chest pain or other conditions who are undergoing angioplasty, a procedure that opens blocked arteries.
Angiomax’s generic name is Bivalirudin.
Known health risks or side effects of Angiomax
Angiomax may cause common side effects such as:
- Anxiety or a headache
- Back or pelvic pain
- Insomnia/sleep problems
- Irritation or pain at the injection site
- Nausea and/or vomiting
You may require immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:
- Black, bloody, or tarry stools
- Bleeding that will not stop
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- Decreased blood pressure or feeling like you might pass out
- Easy bruising; purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin; or unusual bleeding in the nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum
- Increased blood pressure – Signs may include blurred vision, buzzing in the ears, confusion, a severe headache, or shortness of breath.
- Pain or swelling in one or both legs
- A slow heart rate
- A sudden headache, confusion, or problems with vision, speech, or balance
- Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body)
- Urinating less or not urinating at all
List of organs that might be affected by Angiomax
An overdose of Angiomax can cause a complication like an allergic reaction.
Signs may include:
- Blistered, peeling, red, or swollen skin (with or without fever)
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Itching
- Rash
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Unusual hoarseness
- Wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; or trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Angiomax
The following foods or nutrients have similar effects to Angiomax:
- Cayenne peppers – Cayenne peppers have a potent blood-thinning effect because it is rich in salicylates. Cayenne peppers can also lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
- Cinnamon – Cinnamon contains coumarin, a chemical that’s another powerful anticoagulant. Coumarin can help lower blood pressure and relieve inflammation due to arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Do keep in mind that the long-term consumption of foods containing cinnamon, such as cinnamon-based breads and teas, may cause liver damage.
- Turmeric – Studies have shown that turmeric, a spice that gives curry dishes its distinctive yellow color, has curcumin that works on platelets and prevents blood from clotting.
Treatment and management options for the side effects of Angiomax
The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with Angiomax:
- Ginger – Ginger is a popular remedy for treating nausea. It is believed that ginger has compounds that work similarly to anti-nausea medications.
- Magnesium – Magnesium, a naturally occurring mineral, can help muscles relax and relieve stress. Take some magnesium supplements if you have insomnia. Take note that you shouldn’t take magnesium supplements constantly.
- Protein – A protein-rich meal can help fight off nausea.
- Staying hydrated – Dehydration may worsen nausea. If you’re experiencing nausea accompanied by vomiting, replace lost fluids with electrolyte-rich fluids like homemade vegetable broths.
Where to learn more
Summary
Angiomax is an anticoagulant drug that prevents platelets in the blood from coagulating/clotting.
Angiomax may cause common side effects such as anxiety, back or pelvic pain, and insomnia.
An overdose of Angiomax can cause a complication like an allergic reaction.
Cayenne peppers, cinnamon, and turmeric have similar effects to Angiomax.
Ginger, magnesium, protein, and staying hydrated can help prevent the side effects associated with Angiomax.
Sources include:
EMedicineHealth.com
Drugs.com
Healthline.com 1
Healthline.com 2
Healthline.com 3