Antiplatelets

Antiplatelets: A Vital Tool for Protecting the Heart

Antiplatelet medications act on one of the three main bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood cell lines: plateletsPlatelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small cell fragments produced by the bone marrow. They play a crucial role in blood clotting by forming aggregates and clots to stop bleeding when blood vessels are damaged. >>. These tiny cells play a crucial role in bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood clot formation. These medications are particularly beneficial for individuals at risk or those who have already experienced a heart attack or a stroke.

Further Reading: The BloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood

A) Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA) [Aspirin™]

Well-known for its pain-relieving and fever-reducing properties, ASA is also a highly effective protector of the heart. At low doses, it prevents the activation and aggregation of plateletsPlatelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small cell fragments produced by the bone marrow. They play a crucial role in blood clotting by forming aggregates and clots to stop bleeding when blood vessels are damaged. >>, thereby reducing the risk of clot formation. Unlike the higher doses used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever, low doses are specifically designed for cardiovascular protection.

Administration: ASA is typically taken once daily, ideally with food to minimize the risk of gastric irritation.
Common Side Effects:
- More frequent or prolonged bleeding.
- Bruising.
- Stomach irritation, sometimes accompanied by discomfort.

Learn More: Aspirin (ASA)

B) Clopidogrel [Plavix™], Ticagrelor [Brilinta™], Prasugrel [Effient™]

These medications, known as P2Y12 receptor inhibitors, work differently from ASA but share a common goal: preventing plateletsPlatelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small cell fragments produced by the bone marrow. They play a crucial role in blood clotting by forming aggregates and clots to stop bleeding when blood vessels are damaged. >> from activating and clumping together, thereby reducing clot formation. Often used in combination with ASA, they provide enhanced cardiovascular protection through their synergistic action. In some cases, they may be prescribed alone.

Administration:
- Clopidogrel and Prasugrel: Once daily.
- Ticagrelor: Twice daily.
- All of these medications should be taken with food to improve tolerance.
Common Side Effects:
- More frequent or prolonged bleeding.
- Bruising.
- Ticagrelor: Some individuals may experience a transient feeling of shortness of breath. If this occurs, it’s important to consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Why Are These Medications Important?

Antiplatelets play a crucial role in preventing serious cardiovascular complications like heart attacks and strokes by inhibiting clot formation. Their effectiveness is particularly maximized when combined, thanks to their complementary mechanisms of action.

However, since they increase the risk of bleeding, their use must be carefully evaluated by a doctor to ensure they meet the specific needs of each patient.

Dual Antiplatelet Therapy

The combination of these medications, especially with aspirin, is strongly recommended after the placement of a coronary stent. This dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) aims to reduce the risk of stent-related thrombosis, a potentially severe event.

Typically, this combined therapy is maintained for a minimum of 12 months—a critical period to ensure the proper integration of the stent into the vessel wall.

Learn more: Stent thrombosis

Positive impact

When used judiciously, these medications provide essential protection against cardiovascular diseases, significantly improving the quality of life and health of millions of patients.