Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Clot in a deep leg vein → swelling, pain, redness
Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Clot travels to lungs → sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing blood
Stroke: Clot blocks brain blood flow → facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech (remember FAST)
Heart Attack: Clot blocks coronary artery → crushing chest pain, nausea, cold sweat
🚨 Seek emergency care immediately if you experience these symptoms—especially if you’re on a high-risk medication.
💊 Medications Under Scrutiny (Recent Recalls & Warnings)
1. Certain GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs (e.g., Semaglutide, Tirzepatide)
Risk: Increased reports of pancreatitis and gallbladder disease, which can indirectly raise clot risk due to inflammation and immobility.
Note: No direct clot link confirmed—but monitor for abdominal pain, vomiting, or leg swelling.
2. Some Oral Contraceptives & Hormone Therapies
High-risk types: Containing drospirenone, desogestrel, or estrogen (e.g., Yaz, Yasmin, NuvaRing)
Why: Estrogen increases clotting factors. Risk is higher in smokers, women over 35, or those with genetic clotting disorders (Factor V Leiden).
3. Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Risk: Can increase red blood cell count (polycythemia), thickening blood and raising clot risk.
Watch for: Headaches, vision changes, leg pain.
4. Certain Cancer Drugs (e.g., Lenalidomide, Thalidomide)
Used in multiple myeloma—known to significantly increase DVT/PE risk. Often prescribed with blood thinners as prevention.
