
Anticoagulant Medications
Anticoagulant medications, often referred to as blood thinners, help prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger. They are commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of serious conditions like stroke, heart attack, or deep vein thrombosis. Unlike what their name implies, these medications don't actually thin the blood but alter the chemical processes that lead to clotting. Common examples include warfarin, rivaroxaban, and apixaban. Patients on anticoagulants need regular monitoring to ensure effective dosing and to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding. It's important to follow a healthcare provider's guidance when using these medications.