Antiplatelet agent

Antiplatelet agent is a type of drug that inhibits the ability of platelets to clump together as part of a blood clot. Antiplatelet drugs are commonly used to prevent stroke and heart attack.

Mechanism of action

Antiplatelet agents work by interfering with the platelet activation process in several ways. Some drugs prevent the platelets from sticking together by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, which is necessary for the synthesis of thromboxane. Thromboxane is a substance that encourages platelet aggregation and increases platelet clumping. Other antiplatelet drugs work by blocking glycoprotein receptors on the surface of the platelets.

Types of antiplatelet agents

There are several types of antiplatelet agents, including aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, and dipyridamole. These drugs are often used in combination to increase their effectiveness.

Aspirin

Aspirin is the most commonly used antiplatelet agent. It works by irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, preventing the synthesis of thromboxane.

Clopidogrel

Clopidogrel is a second-generation antiplatelet drug. It is more effective than aspirin in preventing heart attack and stroke in patients with peripheral artery disease.

Ticlopidine

Ticlopidine is an older drug that is not commonly used today due to its side effects. However, it is still used in some cases where other treatments are not effective.

Dipyridamole

Dipyridamole is often used in combination with other antiplatelet drugs to increase their effectiveness. It works by inhibiting the uptake of adenosine into platelets, thereby increasing the concentration of adenosine in the blood and inhibiting platelet aggregation.

Side effects

The most common side effect of antiplatelet drugs is bleeding. Other side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

See also

• Anticoagulant
• Thrombosis
• Platelet