6.2 antiplatelets Flashcards
give some examples of thromboembolic diseases
deep vein thrombosis (DVT) pulmonary embolism (PE) consequence of atrial fibrillation (AF) transient ischaemic attacks (TIA) and ischaemic stroke myocardial infarction (MI)
what is a thrombus?
a clot that is adhered top the vessel wall
what is an embolus?
a clot or other plug, usually part or all of a thrombus, brought by the blood from another vessel and forced into a smaller one, thus obstructing circulation
what component of virchows triad is usually affected to cause venous thombosis?
blood flow - associated with stasis of blood or damage to the veins obstructing flow, less likely to see endothelial damage
describe the composition of a venous thrombus?
high red cell count and fibrin content deep red low platelet content that is evenly distributed soft gelatinous
where do arterial thombosis usually form?
Usually form at the site of atherosclerosis following plaque rupture
describe the structure of a arterial thrombus
pale lower fibrin and cell count higher platelet count granular lines of Zahn
how does healthy endothelium prevent thrombus formation?
- produces and releases prostacyclins (PGI2)
- prostacyclins bind to platelet receptors and increase cAMP in platelets
- This low energy signal decreases the release of sequestered calcium
- low calcium prevents platelet aggregation
- there is a decrease in platelet aggregatory agents. and the inactive GPII/IIIa receptors are stabilised
what is the average platelet lifespan?
8 to 10 days
describe the process of platelet activation in the formation of an arterial thrombus?
blood comes into contact with sub endothelial factors such as collagen and vWf. activated platelets cover and adhere to exposed subendothelial surface of the damaged endothelium. These platelets release chemical mediators such as thromboxane A2, ADP, serotonin and PAF. This extensive cascade of signalling molecules activates and recruits more platelets.
describe the process of platelet aggregation in the formation of arterial thrombus
signalling molecules such as thromboxane A2, ADP, serotonin and PAF cause an increase in platelet calcium levels. This causes activation of the GPIIb/IIIa receptors and aggregation through these and fibrinogen. The signalling molecules continue to be releases and cascade and amplification occurs from platelet to platelet.
how does the shape of platelets change during their activation?
change from being a domed shape to elliptical.
what drug classes are used to treat platelet rich white arterial thrombi?
antiplatelet and fibrinolytic drugs
what drug classes are used in the treatment of red venous thrombus?
parental anticoagulants (heparins) oral anticoagulants (warfarin)
what is the drug class of aspirin?
cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor
what is the mechanism of action of aspirin?
Aspirin inhibits COX-1 mediated production of TXA2 and reduces platelet aggregation irreversibly. Potent platelet aggregating agent thromboxane A2 (TXA2) is formed from arachidonic acid by COX-1
why does aspirin not completely inhibit platelet aggregation?
as activated platelets release other chemical mediators such as ADP, serotonin and PAF that are not inhibited via aspirin.
how does the dose of aspirin affect its therapeutic use?
at low doses (75mg) aspirin has an antiplatelet effect
at higher doses ( 300mg) aspiring has an analgesic effect
how does aspirin work as an analgesic?
works at higher doses to inhibit the endothelial prostacyclin (PGI2)
what are the ADRs of aspirin?
Gastrointestinal irritation, GI bleeding (peptic ulcer), haemorrhage (stroke)
hypersensitivity
what are the contraindications of aspirin?
Reye’s syndrome – avoid <16 years
Hypersensitivity
3rd trimester – premature closure of ductus arteriosus
what is Reye’s syndrome?
a rare disorder occurring primarily in children after a viral illness and associated with aspirin usage, characterized by vomiting, swelling of the brain, and liver dysfunction.
what are the important drug interactions fo aspirin?
caution - other antiplatelet and anticoagulants (additive/synergistic action)
why is aspirin not equally effective in all people?
Due to COX-1 polymorphisms result in lack of efficacy in some people