In this video discussion, cardiologists Dr. Anne Curtis and Dr. Hiroko Beck discuss the risks and benefits of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications for stroke and atrial fibrillation. The benefit of taking anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications is that they reduce the risk of stroke because they help to stop blood clots from forming. The main side-effect of these medicines is an increased risk of bleeding. The medications you take will depend on your risk of getting stroke, so speak to your doctor about balancing the benefits with the side effects of these medications. Take your medications as prescribed and have regular follow-up appointments with your doctor. Tell your doctor if your medicines are causing side effects.