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Medications That May Cause Blood Clots (And What You Can Do About It)

While blood clots can form due to lifestyle or medical conditions, certain medications have been directly linked to an increased risk. From hormone therapies to cancer treatments, these drugs may raise clotting risks and require monitoring—especially in older adults or those with underlying health issues.

Here are the most common medications associated with blood clots, and what to do if you’re currently taking them.

Medications Linked to Blood Clots

1. Hormone-Based Medications

  • Birth Control Pills (especially those containing estrogen)
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  • These increase clotting proteins and reduce natural anticoagulants in the blood.

2. Testosterone or Anabolic Steroids

  • Used in hormone therapy or bodybuilding
  • May raise red blood cell count and increase clot risk

3. Cancer Treatments

  • Chemotherapy drugs (e.g., tamoxifen, thalidomide, lenalidomide)
  • Cancer itself can cause clotting; treatment may add to the risk

4. Antipsychotic Medications

  • Risperidone, Olanzapine, and others
  • Associated with increased clot formation, especially in older adults

5. Immunosuppressants and Anti-Inflammatory Biologics

  • Used in autoimmune conditions (e.g., JAK inhibitors like tofacitinib)
  • May slightly raise DVT or PE risk depending on dose

6. COVID-19 Related Treatments

  • Some viral vector vaccines and medications were briefly studied for rare clotting side effects, though risks remain extremely low

If you're taking any of these and have a history of clots or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about safer alternatives or monitoring plans.

Who Is Most at Risk?

The risk of developing a blood clot while on these medications increases if you also have:

  • Obesity
  • Smoking habits
  • Family history of blood clots
  • Recent surgery or long periods of immobility
  • Age 60 or older
  • A genetic clotting disorder (e.g., Factor V Leiden)

Combining multiple risk factors with high-risk medications can significantly elevate your chances of a clot.

Symptoms of a Blood Clot You Shouldn’t Ignore

Be aware of these warning signs, especially if you're on any high-risk medications:

  • Sudden swelling or pain in one leg (DVT)
  • Chest pain and shortness of breath (PE)
  • Sudden vision changes or severe headaches (stroke)
  • Unexplained rapid heartbeat or dizziness

Seek medical help immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

Treatment Options for Medication-Related Clots

If a clot is diagnosed, your treatment may include:

1. Anticoagulant Medications

  • Blood thinners like apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), or warfarin
  • Prevent the clot from growing and reduce the risk of new ones

2. Thrombolytic Therapy

  • Emergency treatment for severe cases like pulmonary embolism or stroke
  • Helps dissolve the clot rapidly

3. Switching Medications

  • Your doctor may discontinue or adjust the medication causing the issue
  • Safer alternatives may be available for hormone therapy or psychiatric care

4. Lifestyle Changes & Compression Wear

  • Wearing compression stockings, staying active, and staying hydrated can reduce your risk
  • Avoid long periods of immobility, especially during travel

Conclusion

Many medications can increase your risk of developing a blood clot—but that doesn’t mean you have to stop taking them. The key is awareness, monitoring, and working closely with your doctor. If you're experiencing symptoms or take any of the drugs listed here, don’t ignore the signs—your life could depend on it.

Sources

CDC – https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dvt/index.html

National Blood Clot Alliance – https://www.stoptheclot.org

Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org

FDA Drug Safety Communications – https://www.fda.gov

Johns Hopkins Medicine – https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org