Question
In mid August ’04, I developed a blood clot in my left leg. One week later I was diagnosed with SLE. Fifteen months later I am still on coumadin and have been told I will have to take for the rest of my life. SLE has a tendency to repeat past blood clots, I was told. Is there another drug to replace coumadin so I can stop the madness of blood tests every month for pro times? What is your opinion?
Answer
Patients with SLE who have blood clots are often recommended to be on anticoagulants (blood thinners) for life. This is particularly true of patients if they have blood test positive for anticardiolipin antibodies or lupus anticoagulant. Coumadin is considered the treatment of choice. Injections of low molecular weight heparin (enoxiparin) can be given for short periods of time. I agree with your sentiments that there needs to be a better way discovered.
