What Are Blood Thinners and How Do They Work?

Kush Desai, MD

Anticoagulants, commonly known as blood thinners, are medications meant to keep your blood from clotting. When a blood clot is found in the deep veins of the leg, it is called a deep venous thrombosis (DVT). Anticoagulants are typically prescribed in these situations to prevent extension of the clot; it is important to remember that it does not actually cause the existing clot to dissolve or break up; the body does that on its own.

Anticoagulants all work differently; some work by changing factors made by the liver, others work directly on proteins in the bloodstream. These medications are delivered in a variety of ways. In the hospital, they may be given through an IV, with a transition to injectable or oral medications later. As an outpatient, they will be initially received orally or through an injection. These medications commonly increase a patient’s ability to bruise and bleed with cuts or trauma. It is important to follow your physician’s advice closely while taking these medications.