Clot-busting drug tissue plasminogen activator ( tPA ) is the only approved treatment for dissolving blood clots common during stroke, heart attacks or pulmonary embolisms.

United States Food and Drug Administration officials today delayed approval of Eliquis ( apixaban ) to prevent stroke or systemic embolism in patients with a common heart arrhythmia for the second time.

Filters used to block blood clots from passing to the lungs and creating a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism can save patient lives. Yet a trio of new studies suggests they don't reduce the risk of dying. The vena cava filters may reduce the risk of mortality in patients considered "unstable" when they arrive at the hospital, however. Always ask about the benefits and risks of potential therapies. Paul Stein, MD, a lead researcher, professor in osteopathic medical specialties at Michigan State University and director of research at St. Mary Mercy Hospital, noted t...

Following a blood clot patients commonly take warfarin (Coumadin) to prevent a recurrence. It may be just as safe and effective for those individuals to later switch to aspirin.

Following a close vote, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration panel has declined to recommend r ivaroxaban ( Xarelto ) to treat acute coronary syndrome.

Patients with certain types of atrial fibrillation, a common heart arrhythmia, are at a high risk of stroke and blood clots if they temporarily stop their blood thinning medication before surgery or permanently because of side effects.

Hospitalized patients who undergo surgery aren't the only ones at risk of suffering a dangerous blood clot. Patients undergoing outpatient procedures also are at risk.

Clot-busters used to treat severe cases of pulmonary embolism, or a blood clot in the lungs, can safely treat less serious cases. New research suggests they are safe and effective in treating moderate pulmonary embolism.

New oral blood thinner rivaroxaban ( Xarelto ) has been shown to be safer for treating a pulmonary embolism as compared to enoxaparin ( Lovenox ) injections, and was found to be just as effective.

Women who use oral contraception, take caution: Birth control pills that contain the hormone  drospirenone may cause blood clots. Government officials are still examining study data and will decided whether the pills’ benefits outweigh the risk.