Common blood thinners (anticoagulants)
Anticoagulants are usually prescribed for atrial fibrillation (stroke prevention), DVT/PE treatment, or clot prevention after surgery. Names vary by country and brand.
- Warfarin (Coumadin and others) — INR monitoring required
- Apixaban (Eliquis) — factor Xa inhibitor
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto) — factor Xa inhibitor
- Dabigatran (Pradaxa) — direct thrombin inhibitor
- Edoxaban (Savaysa/Lixiana) — factor Xa inhibitor
- Heparin / LMWH (e.g., enoxaparin) — often short-term/in-hospital or bridging
Antiplatelets (different mechanism)
Antiplatelets reduce platelet aggregation (clot “stickiness”). They are often used after stents or for vascular disease.
- Aspirin
- Clopidogrel (Plavix)
- Prasugrel, ticagrelor
Stacking risk: Combining antiplatelets with anticoagulants can sharply raise bleeding risk. Only do this under clinician direction.
Bridging and “switching”
Sometimes therapy is paused for procedures or switched between agents. This is individualized and depends on clot risk, bleeding risk, and timing.
- Never stop or switch on your own.
- Ask for written peri-procedure instructions.
- Ask who to call after-hours if bleeding occurs.