Developments in Oral Antiplatelet Agents for the Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndromes

A review of the literature was conducted for clinical trials evaluating the antiplatelet P2Y12 receptor antagonists, clopidogrel, prasugrel, and ticagrelor, as well as the guidelines for the management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or myocardial infarction. Clinical guidelines recommend that patients with ACS be treated with dual oral antiplatelet therapy of aspirin plus clopidogrel, prasugrel, or ticagrelor. The selection of an appropriate antiplatelet agent depends on the treatment approach and a patient's bleeding risk and clinical history. With respect to antiplatelet activity, prasugrel and ticagrelor demonstrate greater potency and less interpatient variability than clopidogrel. In phase III clinical trials, prasugrel and ticagrelor reduced the incidence of ischemic events in patients with ACS compared with clopidogrel. Ticagrelor and clopidogrel were associated with a similar risk of major bleeding, whereas patients receiving prasugrel had an increased risk of major bleeding versus those receiving clopidogrel. Pharmacists can provide guidance on the appropriate use of antiplatelet agents as well as the use of concomitant medications, while being vigilant for any potential drug interactions.