Antiplatelet (aspirin)

Question 1

What are the generic and brand names of antiplatelets?

Answer 1

• Aspirin (Disprin)
• Prasugrel (Efient)
• Dipyridamole (Persantin)

Question 2

What is the method of action of antiplatelets?

Answer 2

• Inhibits cyclooxgenase (COX)
• = ↓ production of thromboxane from arachidonic acid
• = ↓ platelet aggregation

Question 3

What are the indications for antiplatelets?

Answer 3

• Acute coronary syndrome
• Acute ischemic stroke
• Secondary prevention of thrombotic arterial event – for those with cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and peripheral arterial disease
• Reduce risk of intercardiac thrombus and embolic stroke in AF
• Control mild to moderate pain and fever

Question 4

What are the contraindications for platelets?

Answer 4

• Children under 16 – risk of Reye’s syndrome (damage to mitochondria causing liver and brain damage)
• Aspirin hypersensitivity
• 3rd trimester of pregnancy – may lead to ductus arteriosus
• Previous peptic ulcer – use with caution e.g. gastro-protection
• Gout – may trigger acute attack

Question 5

What are the side effects of antiplatelets?

Answer 5

• GI irritation
• Peptic ulcers/haemorrhage
• Hypersensitivity reaction inc. bronchospasm
• Tinnitus – regular high doses
• Death, hyperventilation, hearing changes, metabolic acidosis, confusion, convulsions, CV collapse, respiratory arrest – from overdose

Question 6

What drugs do antiplatelets interact with?

Answer 6

• Antiplatelet drugs e.g. clopidogrel, dipyridamole – increases risk of bleeding
• Anticoagulants e.g. heparin, warfarin – if has acute coronary syndrome

Question 7

What organ eliminates antiplatelets?

Answer 7

Kidney

Question 8

What patient information should be given to a patient when taking this drug?

Answer 8

• Should be taken after food