Why might a patient on anticoagulants need to avoid certain over-the-counter medications?

Patients on anticoagulants, such as warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants, need to avoid certain over-the-counter medications primarily because these medications can increase the risk of bleeding. Anticoagulants work by interfering with the blood's ability to clot, and when combined with other medications that also affect clotting mechanisms—such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin—the likelihood of experiencing significant bleeding can greatly increase.

This heightened risk is particularly concerning in situations such as surgery or injury, where even small cuts could lead to excessive bleeding. Additionally, some over-the-counter medications may not be well understood in terms of their interaction with anticoagulants, further complicating patient safety. Therefore, it's crucial for patients on these medications to consult healthcare providers before taking any new medications, to ensure they do not inadvertently elevate their bleeding risk.