P2Y12-receptor-inhibiting antiplatelet strategies in acute coronary syndromes

SummaryAntiplatelet therapy in acute coronary syndromes is essential for preventing stent thrombosis and for reducing major adverse cardiovascular events. Treatment strategy has changed over the last years by frequent use of more active agents inhibiting the ADP mediated activation of platelets instead of clopidogrel, such as prasugrel and ticagrelor. Compared to clopidogrel these modern antiplatelet drugs showed a significant reduction of efficacy endpoints as well as an acceptable safety profile in large multicenter randomized trials (TRITON TIMI 38, PLATO). Going in with higher efficacy a generally higher ble…