The newer antiplatelet drugs that have become available are primarily prasugrel and ticagrelor.
These drugs are generally considered more potent than clopidogrel, a commonly used antiplatelet medication, especially when combined with aspirin (ASA). Their increased potency comes with potential benefits and risks that healthcare professionals carefully weigh when deciding on the best treatment option for each patient.
Here's a breakdown:
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Prasugrel: This is a thienopyridine-class antiplatelet agent. It irreversibly binds to the P2Y12 receptor on platelets, inhibiting platelet activation and aggregation. Because the binding is irreversible, the effect lasts for the lifespan of the platelet (7-10 days).
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Ticagrelor: This is a cyclopentyltriazolopyrimidine-class antiplatelet agent. Unlike prasugrel and clopidogrel, ticagrelor reversibly binds to the P2Y12 receptor. This means the antiplatelet effect diminishes more rapidly after discontinuation, compared to irreversible inhibitors. Also, it does not require metabolic activation to become effective.
The development and introduction of these newer antiplatelet agents have significantly expanded the options available for managing cardiovascular diseases, allowing for more tailored treatment approaches.
