Blood thinners

Blood thinners are medicines that inhibit the clotting of the blood. These medicines are also often referred to as anticoagulants, which is a more correct term. The blood does not become thinner; they prevent the blood from clotting.

Types of blood thinners

Two groups of blood thinners are distinguished: mild and powerful. The less powerful antiplatelet drugs are prescribed at a relatively low risk of blood clotting.

The group of powerful blood thinners includes vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). VKAs inhibit the action of vitamin K, which is needed for the production of clotting factors in the blood.

Another group of powerful blood thinners is direct oral anticoagulants, abbreviated DOACs. These have a direct inhibitory effect on clotting proteins in the blood, such as thrombin.

What are blood thinners used for?

Blood thinners are prescribed when there is already thrombosis or when patients have an increased risk of blood clots. Examples of this include heart rhythm disorders and atherosclerosis (arteriosclerosis).

Blood thinners are regularly prescribed to prevent a new stroke or heart attack. This ensures that the blood vessels do not become blocked again so quickly. Blood thinners are also almost standard on the list of medicines after an operation.

What are possible side effects of blood thinners?

When using blood thinners, side effects may occur. This depends on the potency of the medicines. With antiplatelet drugs, the side effects are generally limited to the easy formation of bruises (haematomas) and wounds that stop bleeding less quickly.

These side effects occur on average in 10 to 30% of users. With the more powerful VKA and DOAC variants, the same numbers of the above side effects apply, and, in addition, there is an increased risk of spontaneous stomach or intestinal bleeding.

Where are blood thinners available?

Blood thinners are available at the pharmacy. Antiplatelet drugs are produced in tablet and powder form. VKAs and DOACs are only available in tablet form. Finally, there are also small injections with blood thinners; these are packaged individually and can be used by patients themselves.