What is the difference between an anticoagulant and an antiplatelet?

Anticoagulants prevent blood clots by inhibiting clotting factors in the coagulation cascade, working on the protein-based clotting pathway. Examples include warfarin, heparin, and apixaban. Antiplatelets prevent clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation, working on the cellular component of clot formation. Examples include aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor. Anticoagulants are primarily used for venous clots like deep vein thrombosis and atrial fibrillation. Antiplatelets are primarily used for arterial clots like heart attacks and strokes. ---