Blood thinners is a common term for anticoagulation medications used to treat andpreventblood clots.
They do not thin the blood but instead block certain clotting proteins.
Blood travels through blood vessels in a liquid form to bring oxygen and nutrients to tissues throughout the body.
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While anticoagulation medications can be lifesaving, they carry a risk of bleeding.
This article discusses the types of blood thinners, their medical uses, and side effects.
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What Are Blood Thinners?
Blood thinners are anticoagulation medications that treat and prevent blood clots.
Blood clotting is an extremely important function of the body that prevents bleeding.
Without blood clotting, a small cut would cause serious, prolonged bleeding.
Blood clots form through two important processes: thecoagulationcascade and platelet activation.
Blood thinners work by targeting steps in each of these processes.
These proteins are activated through a series of steps that, ultimately, activates fibrin.
Fibrin is a protein formed during the clotting process that helps stop blood flow.
Another important part of blood clots isplatelets.
Damaged tissue activates platelets in the blood.
Why Are Blood Thinners Prescribed?
The following are some specific conditions that could require blood thinners:
How Do Blood Thinners Work?
Anticoagulantmedications target the coagulation cascade, whereas antiplatelet medications target platelet activation.
These medications can be oral pills or injections.
Types of Blood Thinners
Anticoagulants
Anticoagulant blood thinners target various proteins in the coagulation cascade.
Examples of anticoagulants include:
Antiplatelets
Antiplatelets are medications that target the activation and aggregation of platelets.
They are commonly used in the treatment and prevention of stroke and heart attacks.
But serious bleeding, such as bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract or brain, can occur.
These bleeds can be life-threatening.
It is important to avoid contact sports or activities while taking anticoagulation.
Natural Blood Thinners
Some foods and supplements are believed to have some blood thinning properties.
Supplements should never be taken as a replacement for a prescribed blood-thinning medication.
These include anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications.
The benefit of taking blood-thinning medications must always be weighed against their risk of serious bleeding.
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
Lovenox (low molecular weight heparin) wears off after about 12 hours.
This depends on why your healthcare provider prescribed a blood thinner in the first place.
Tylenol (acetaminophen) is generally a safe over-the-counter pain medication to take while on blood thinners.
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