What type of chemical is used to prevent blood clotting?

Anticoagulants are a specific type of chemical agent that work to prevent blood from clotting, thereby maintaining blood flow and preventing clot formation. They achieve this by interfering with the usual coagulation cascades in the body, which can help reduce the risk of thrombosis in various medical conditions. Common examples of anticoagulants include heparin, warfarin, and direct oral anticoagulants like rivaroxaban.

In contrast, antibodies and antigens are related to the immune response. Antibodies are produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects such as bacteria and viruses, while antigens are substances that induce an immune response. Anemia, on the other hand, refers to a condition characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to a reduced capacity of the blood to carry oxygen, rather than a mechanism of preventing clotting. Thus, the role of anticoagulants is specifically aligned with inhibiting the clotting process in the bloodstream.