anticoagulant

Full Definition

Anticoagulants are medications that prevent the formation of blood clots by interfering with the blood coagulation cascade. They are used to prevent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation, treat venous thromboembolism, and prevent clots in patients with mechanical heart valves. Common anticoagulants include warfarin, heparin, and newer direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like rivaroxaban and apixaban. Unlike antiplatelet agents, anticoagulants work on the coagulation factors rather than platelet function.

Usage

Usage note: Preferred over 'blood thinner' in clinical documentation; distinguish from antiplatelet agents.

In Context

• "The patient requires lifelong anticoagulant therapy due to mechanical mitral valve replacement." — Cardiothoracic surgery follow-up
• "Anticoagulant dosing must be carefully monitored to balance stroke prevention with bleeding risk." — Anticoagulation clinic note