Antiplatelet medications are drugs that help prevent blood clots by inhibiting the aggregation of platelets, which are small cells in the blood that play a key role in clot formation. These medications are commonly prescribed to individuals at risk of heart attacks or strokes, as they help maintain blood flow and reduce the chances of blockages in the arteries.
Common examples of antiplatelet medications include aspirin and clopidogrel. These drugs are often used after procedures like stent placement or in patients with conditions such as coronary artery disease to improve overall cardiovascular health and prevent serious complications.