Improved understanding of the mechanisms of thrombogenesis has led to the discovery of new antithrombotic agents, anticoagulants, antiplatelets and fibrinolytics. Although most of them are still under development, low molecular weight heparins, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists, inhibitors of the ADP receptor of platelets and new fibrinolytics have already proved their efficacy in the clinical setting. Compounds are being developed that have the potential to prevent and treat thrombosis by modulating vessel wall function