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Blood thinners

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Blood thinners

Blood thinners are medicines that prevent blood clots. They do not actually thin the blood but increase the time it takes to form a blood clot. They also help prevent existing blood clots from becoming larger. They may be used to prevent or to treat certain blood vessel, heart, or lung conditions.

The term "blood thinner" describes different types of medicines, including anticoagulants and antiplatelets.

Examples of anticoagulants include:

  • apixaban (Eliquis).
  • dabigatran (Pradaxa).
  • edoxaban (Savaysa).
  • enoxaparin (Lovenox).
  • rivaroxaban (Xarelto).
  • warfarin (Coumadin).

Examples of antiplatelets include:

  • aspirin (Bayer, Bufferin, Ecotrin).
  • clopidogrel (Plavix).
  • prasugrel (Effient).
  • ticagrelor (Brilinta).

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.