Anticoagulan

/ˌæn.tiˌkoʊˈæɡ.jə.lən/ noun

Definition

A substance that prevents blood from coagulating or clotting; anticoagulant.

Etymology

From 'anti-' (against) + 'coagulant' (clotting agent). This medical term emerged in the 20th century as doctors developed drugs to prevent unwanted blood clots.

Kelly Says

Warfarin, a common anticoagulant, was originally developed as rat poison because it made rodents bleed internally—doctors realized small doses could safely prevent dangerous blood clots in humans!

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