Blood
Medicines for Antiphospholipid syndrome
An immune condition that makes the blood more likely to clot, causing thromboses and pregnancy complications — managed with blood-thinning treatment.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Antiphospholipid syndrome?
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), sometimes called "sticky blood" or Hughes syndrome, is a condition in which the immune system makes antibodies that increase the tendency of the blood to clot. This can lead to blood clots in the veins (such as a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) or arteries (including some strokes), and to pregnancy problems such as recurrent miscarriage.
- How it is treated: Treatment focuses on reducing the risk of clots.
- Self-care: Managing general clot and cardiovascular risk factors — not smoking, staying active, and moving on long journeys — supports treatment.
- When to seek help: People with APS should follow their treatment plan and seek advice when planning pregnancy.
What it is
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), sometimes called "sticky blood" or Hughes syndrome, is a condition in which the immune system makes antibodies that increase the tendency of the blood to clot. This can lead to blood clots in the veins (such as a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) or arteries (including some strokes), and to pregnancy problems such as recurrent miscarriage. It can occur on its own or alongside other autoimmune conditions such as lupus. It is diagnosed with blood tests showing the specific antibodies, repeated to confirm, usually after a clotting event or pregnancy complications. Recognising it allows effective treatment to prevent further problems.
How it is treated
Treatment focuses on reducing the risk of clots. People who have had a clot are usually treated with long-term anticoagulation ("blood thinning"), and in pregnancy a combination of blood-thinning treatments is used to reduce the risk of miscarriage and other complications, with close monitoring. Those who have the antibodies but have never had a clot may be advised on managing other risk factors and, in some situations, low-dose treatment. Managing general cardiovascular risk factors and, where present, any associated autoimmune condition are also part of care. Treatment is guided by a specialist.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Antiphospholipid syndrome
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Managing general clot and cardiovascular risk factors — not smoking, staying active, and moving on long journeys — supports treatment. Anyone with APS planning pregnancy should seek specialist advice in advance.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
People with APS should follow their treatment plan and seek advice when planning pregnancy. Call 999 for signs of a clot: sudden breathlessness or chest pain, a painful swollen leg, or stroke symptoms (FAST).
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Antiphospholipid syndrome: frequently asked questions
What is antiphospholipid syndrome?
It is an immune condition that makes the blood more likely to clot, causing thromboses and pregnancy complications such as recurrent miscarriage. It is managed with blood-thinning treatment.
Can women with APS have healthy pregnancies?
Yes. With specialist care and blood-thinning treatment during pregnancy, many women with APS have successful pregnancies. Planning and close monitoring are important.
Keep reading
Related articles
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Antiphospholipid syndrome
- British Society for Haematology guidance
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