Which class includes medications that prevent clot formation?

• A. Anticoagulants and antiplatelets (Class)
• B. Antiplatelets (Class)
• C. Anticoagulants (Class)
• D. Analgesics (Class)

Answer: (A)

Clot prevention relies on blocking the steps that lead to thrombus formation: platelet activity and the coagulation cascade. Drugs that prevent clot formation do this in two main ways. Antiplatelet medications stop platelets from sticking together, reducing the risk of arterial clots. Anticoagulants interfere with coagulation factors, slowing or stopping the formation of fibrin and thus preventing venous clots or the growth of existing clots. Because preventing clot formation can involve either or both pathways, the class that includes both anticoagulants and antiplatelets best fits the description. Analgesics are for pain relief and are not used primarily to prevent clot formation.