What is the term for a drug that breaks down blood clots?

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

Answer: (C)

A thrombolytic is the type of drug that breaks down an existing blood clot. It works by activating enzymes that digest fibrin, the protein lattice that holds clots together, so the clot dissolves and blood flow can be restored. This is different from anticoagulants, which prevent new clots from forming or existing ones from growing, and antiplatelets, which stop platelets from clumping to form new clots. Vasodilators, on the other hand, widen blood vessels but don’t dissolve clots. Thrombolytics are used in emergencies to dissolve clots, though they carry a bleeding risk.