Drug-induced alterations of hemostasis and fibrinolysis.

The hemostatic and fibrinolytic systems contribute significantly to the overall pathophysiologic status of a patient in a given clinical setting. Drug modulation of these systems plays a crucial role in the facilitation of the therapeutic effects but may also produce bleeding or thrombotic disorders. Many drugs appear inert; they can, however, modulate both the hemostatic and fibrinolytic systems. Such effects depend on several factors, however, but are significant enough to be recognized for the optimal care of patients. Therefore, it is recommended that the hemostatic and fibrinolytic systems should be routinely monitored during drug delivery.