Clinical therapeutics
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Clinical therapeutics · Jun 2012
ReviewTicagrelor: oral reversible P2Y(12) receptor antagonist for the management of acute coronary syndromes.
The clinical benefits of dual antiplatelet treatment (aspirin + clopidogrel) in the management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) are well established. However, clopidogrel is a prodrug that requires hepatic activation. Concerns regarding its delayed onset of action, variability in antiplatelet effects, and prolonged recovery of platelet function after discontinuation have prompted the development of P2Y(12) receptor antagonists. Ticagrelor is the most recently developed P2Y(12) receptor antagonist available in the United States. Ticagrelor is a nonthienopyridine antiplatelet agent and is the first reversible oral antagonist of the P2Y(12) receptors. ⋯ Based on the findings from the present review, ticagrelor provides reversible inhibition of adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation, with a faster onset of action than clopidogrel, and is effective in the treatment of patients with ACS. More data are required to definitively position ticagrelor with respect to other antiplatelet agents, including prasugrel.