Vitamin K antagonist

Vitamin K antagonist

A Vitamin K antagonist (pronounced: vih-tuh-min kay an-tag-uh-nist) is a type of Anticoagulant medication that thins the blood and prevents blood clots. It works by reducing the action of Vitamin K, which is necessary for the production of clotting factors in the Liver.

Etymology

The term "Vitamin K antagonist" is derived from the role these drugs play in antagonizing the action of Vitamin K. The term "antagonist" in pharmacology refers to a substance that interferes with or inhibits the physiological action of another.

Types of Vitamin K Antagonists

There are several types of Vitamin K antagonists, including Warfarin, Phenprocoumon, and Acenocoumarol. These drugs are often used in the treatment and prevention of conditions such as Deep vein thrombosis and Pulmonary embolism.

Related Terms

• Anticoagulant
• Blood clot
• Vitamin K
• Liver
• Warfarin
• Phenprocoumon
• Acenocoumarol
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolism

See Also

• Coagulation
• Hemostasis
• Thrombosis

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