Dipyridamole is primarily used in the prevention of blood clots, particularly in patients who have undergone heart valve replacement surgery. It works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots, reducing the risk of stroke and other thromboembolic events.

In medical imaging, dipyridamole is used as a vasodilator during stress tests to evaluate coronary artery disease. It helps to mimic the effects of exercise on the heart by increasing blood flow, allowing doctors to assess heart function and identify areas with reduced blood supply.

Additionally, dipyridamole is sometimes combined with aspirin to enhance its antiplatelet effects, providing better protection against strokes in high-risk patients. This combination is particularly useful for individuals who cannot tolerate other anticoagulant therapies.

In research settings, dipyridamole is studied for its potential benefits in treating other conditions, such as certain types of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, due to its ability to modulate cellular signaling pathways. However, these applications are still under investigation and not yet widely adopted in clinical practice.