What is the primary action of anticoagulants?

The primary action of anticoagulants is to prevent blood clot formation. These medications work by interfering with the clotting process, which helps to reduce the risk of developing blood clots. They target various components of the coagulation cascade, inhibiting the action of certain clotting factors and thus modifying the blood's ability to form clots.

This action is crucial in managing various cardiovascular conditions where the risk of thrombosis is elevated, such as in patients with atrial fibrillation or those recovering from certain surgeries. By preventing clots, anticoagulants reduce the likelihood of serious complications like stroke or deep vein thrombosis.

In contrast, increasing blood viscosity would actually promote clot formation, while dissolving existing clots is the function of thrombolytics, not anticoagulants. Enhancing platelet function would also lead to increased clotting. Thus, anticoagulants specifically aim to inhibit the clotting process rather than enhance it or dissolve clots that have already formed.