Which term is used for a drug that dissolves clots?

Which term is used for a drug that dissolves clots?

• A. Anticoagulant
• B. Thrombolytic
• C. Antiplatelet
• D. Vasodilator

Answer: (B)

Thrombolytics are drugs that dissolve clots by activating the body's fibrinolytic system, turning plasminogen into plasmin to break down fibrin, the mesh that holds a clot together. This directly targets and dissolves an existing clot, which is why it’s the correct term. In contrast, anticoagulants prevent new clots from forming by interrupting the coagulation cascade, antiplatelets stop platelets from sticking together, and vasodilators widen blood vessels without dissolving clots. Thrombolytics (also called fibrinolytics) are used in acute clot-related situations when rapid clot breakdown is needed, though they carry a risk of bleeding.

Thrombolytics are drugs that dissolve clots by activating the body's fibrinolytic system, turning plasminogen into plasmin to break down fibrin, the mesh that holds a clot together. This directly targets and dissolves an existing clot, which is why it’s the correct term. In contrast, anticoagulants prevent new clots from forming by interrupting the coagulation cascade, antiplatelets stop platelets from sticking together, and vasodilators widen blood vessels without dissolving clots. Thrombolytics (also called fibrinolytics) are used in acute clot-related situations when rapid clot breakdown is needed, though they carry a risk of bleeding.