Antiplatelets (Blood Thinners)

What are Antiplatelets (Blood Thinners) ❓

Medication that prevents and reduces blood clotting ⭕

 Prevents the platelets (tiny fragments of blood) sticking together in the arteries and forming the clots

What are the Main Types of Antiplatelets ❓

 The most common drug is aspirin 💊

 Other drugs such as clopidogrel, prasugrel, ticagrelor and dipyridamole are also used

What are Antiplatelets Used for ❓

 Prevention of some cardiovascular events/damage:

 Angina (chest discomfort) 💔

 Atrial fibrillation (irregular/fast heartbeat) 📈

 Peripheral arterial disease (narrowed arteries)

 Acute coronary syndrome (reduced blood flow to the heart)

 Also prescribed after: stroke, transient ischaemic attack (a brief stroke-like attack), heart attack and stent implantation 💪

What are the Adverse Effects of Antiplatelets ❓

 Excessive bleeding 💉

 Skin reactions

 Vomiting/nausea/diarrhoea 🤮

 Stomach irritation

 Bruising 💢

 Headache/dizziness 💫

 Chest pain/shortness of breath