Cardiac: Platelet Inhibitors/ Anticoagulants

Question 1

Aspirin

Onset: 5-30 minutes
Peak effects: 15-120 minutes
Duration: 1-4 hours
Half-life: 15-20 minutes

MOA: Aspirin blocks formation of the substance thromboxane A(2), which causes platelets to aggregate and arteries to constrict. This results in an overall reduction in mortality associated with MI.

Answer 1

Class: Platelet aggregation inhibitor and anti-inflammatory agent

Indications: used for new chest pain associated with acute coronary syndrome

Contraindications: known hypersensitivity; relatively contraindicated in pts with active ulcer disease and asthma

Precautions: can cause GI bleeding, use with caution in those allergic to NSAIDS

Route: PO

Dosage: 325 mg

Question 2

Heparin

Answer 2

Class: Anticoagulant (unfractionated)

Question 3

Enoxaparin (Lovenox)

Answer 3

Class: Anticoagulant (fractionated)

Question 4

Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Answer 4

Class: Platelet aggregation inhibitor

Question 5

Abciximab (ReoPro)

Answer 5

Class: Platelet aggregation inhibitor

Question 6

Eptifibatide (Integrilin)

Answer 6

Class: Platelet aggregation inhibitor

Question 7

Tirofiban (Aggrastat)

Answer 7

Class: Platelet aggregation inhibitor