Treatment for Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Treatment for antiphospholipid syndrome focuses on preventing blood clots, managing symptoms, and reducing risk in high-stress situations like surgery or pregnancy. The mainstay of treatment is long-term blood thinning medication (anticoagulation).
1. Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners)
- Warfarin (Coumadin) – Most common long-term treatment
- Requires regular INR blood tests
- Heparin or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) – Used during pregnancy or hospital stays
- Aspirin – Often combined with other anticoagulants, especially in low-risk patients
2. Pregnancy Management
- High-risk pregnancies require careful planning
- Treatment often includes:
- Low-dose aspirin
- Heparin injections
- Close monitoring by an obstetrician and haematologist
3. Lifestyle Changes
- Stop smoking
- Stay active – Regular movement prevents clot formation
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid oestrogen-containing contraceptives or hormone therapies
- Stay hydrated, especially during travel or illness
4. Immunosuppressive Therapy (in some cases)
- For patients with secondary APS (e.g. lupus), drugs like hydroxychloroquine may be added
5. Monitoring
- Regular blood tests for INR (if on warfarin)
- Monitoring for signs of clotting or bleeding
- Pregnancy planning and preconception counselling
Access to anticoagulation therapy and specialised obstetric care is improving in South Africa, especially in urban areas. Awareness is key to preventing complications.
Let’s now look at the possible complications of APS if left untreated or poorly managed.
👉 [Next: Complications of Antiphospholipid Syndrome]
Dr Stuart Wade Anaesthetist Brighton
Antiphospholipid Syndrome Overview
