Resource type
Information leaflet
Publication type
Stroke information

Blood-thinning medications reduce your risk of stroke by helping to prevent blood clots from forming. You might be prescribed them after a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or a stroke caused by a blockage (an ischaemic stroke, or clot).

This guide explains the two main types of blood-thinning medication, antiplatelets and anticoagulants, and how they can help to reduce your risk of a stroke.

Antiplatelets such as aspirin and clopidogrel are given after a stroke or TIA. Someone with atrial fibrillation may be given an anticoagulant such as warfarin, dabigatran etexilate, rivaroxaban, apixaban, or edoxaban.

This guide explains how the medications can reduce stroke risk, with information on how they are used and common side effects. It also lists some sources of further information and support. 

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