Which medications are known to commonly interact with anticoagulants?

Anticoagulants are medications that reduce the blood's ability to clot, and certain medications can significantly interact with them, heightening the risk of bleeding or reducing their efficacy. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are particularly notable for their potential to interact with anticoagulants.

NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially when used concurrently with anticoagulants, due to their action on the gastric mucosa and their effect on platelet function. This combination can substantially increase bleeding risk, which is a major concern when managing patients on anticoagulation therapy.

While other medication classes can interact with anticoagulants, NSAIDs are well-documented for their specific mechanisms that exacerbate bleeding tendencies when used alongside these blood-thinning agents. Such interactions are crucial for healthcare providers to recognize, as they guide medication management and ensure patient safety.