Antiplatelets
Start with the big picture
Antiplatelet therapy targets platelet activation and aggregation at different points. Aspirin irreversibly inhibits COX-1 and reduces thromboxane A₂, while P2Y12 inhibitors interrupt ADP-mediated activation of GP IIb/IIIa. GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors block a final common pathway and are given intravenously in selected high-risk settings. PDE inhibitors and the PAR-1 antagonist vorapaxar offer other mechanisms and specific clinical roles. The lesson compares these classes, including differences in activation, reversibility, adverse effects, and contraindications. It also introduces dual antiplatelet therapy, bleeding management, perioperative interruption, drug interactions, and monitoring—areas where class-specific distinctions matter for safe use.
What you'll learn
- Identify the five major antiplatelet drug classes and their targets.
- Explain how aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors reduce platelet aggregation.
- Compare selected agents by activation, reversibility, adverse effects, and contraindications.
- Describe key considerations in dual therapy, bleeding management, and perioperative interruption.
- Recognize monitoring and interaction issues highlighted for antiplatelet agents.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
