GPIIbIIIa inhibitors as adjunctive therapy in acute myocardial infarction.
Thrombolytic therapy has proved useful in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction but is frequently associated with limited vessel reperfusion and early reocclusion. Local platelet aggregation and activation play a role in these pathological processes, explaining the benefit of aspirin, a weak antiplatelet agent. Recent interest has turned to GPIIbIIIa antagonists, a class of potent inhibitors of platelet aggregation. Their concomitant use with fibrinolytics, in rescue and primary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction treatment is explored. Efficacy and safety issues are addressed and the potential pivotal role of these agents in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction is discussed.
Andreas Gruentzig Cardiovascular Center, Division of Cardiology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. mysalame@hotmail.com
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D015906:Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000628:therapy; D010974:Platelet Aggregation / Q000187:drug effects; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019039:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D015912:Thrombolytic Therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D019039:Platelet Glycoprotein GPIIb-IIIa Complex