[Platelet inhibitors from a cardiological viewpoint: evidence based therapy and new concepts for the acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation].
The pathophysiology of the acute coronary syndrome is related to a vulnerable, inflammatory plaque promoting activation and aggregation of platelets. Therefore, the inhibition of platelet function is a primary goal of the treatment of the acute coronary syndrome. In recent years this field has made substantial progress, which is reflected by frequently updated treatment guidelines. New dose regimens and therapeutic strategies, but also innovative pharmacological principles evolved recently. Some of these novel drugs are currently tested in clinical trials. Increasing experience with the currently used platelet inhibitors also revealed potential shortcomings of these substances, such as drug resistance. This review will give a cardiological perspective of some important clinical aspects and new developments in the field of platelet inhibitors.
Ivandic
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Innere Medizin, Abt. III, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg.
Giannitsis
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