An antithrombotic agent is a drug that reduces the formation of blood clots (thrombi).[1][2] Antirhombotics can be used therapeutically for prevention (primary prevention, secondary prevention) or treatment of a dangerous blood clot (acute thrombus). In the U.S., the American College of Chest Physicians publish clinical guidelines for clinicians for the use of these drugs to treat and prevent a variety of diseases.
Processes
Different antithrombotics affect different blood clotting processes:
- Antiplatelet drugs limit the migration or aggregation of platelets.
- Anticoagulants limit the ability of the blood to clot.
- Thrombolytic drugs act to dissolve clots after they have formed.
See also
- Direct Xa inhibitor
- Warfarin
- Efegatran and Napsagatran (fibrinogen receptor antagonists).
References
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