Clopidogrel in acute coronary syndromes (unstable angina and non-Q-wave myocardial infarction).
Given the importance of thrombosis in acute coronary syndromes, antithrombotic therapy has become standard treatment for these conditions. This article reviews the mechanism of action and the major evidence supporting the clinical use of clopidogrel, a potent antiplatelet agent of the thienopyridines class, focusing on its role in the setting of acute coronary syndromes without persistent ST segment elevation (unstable angina and non-Q wave myocardial infarction). Some unanswered questions relating to this medication are also highlighted. Finally, current updates on clinical guidelines for the use of clopidogrel in acute coronary syndromes are discussed.
Institut Clinic de Malalties Cardiovasculars, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain. mheras@clinic.ub.es
Magda
M
Heras
Alessandro
A
Sionis
D000789:Angina, Unstable / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D000077144:Clopidogrel; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000191:economics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013988:Ticlopidine / Q000031:analogs & derivatives / Q000191:economics / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use
D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D000077144:Clopidogrel; D013988:Ticlopidine