Side by side

1. 1.Binds the glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor on activated platelets.
2. 2.Prevents fibrinogen and von Willebrand factor from cross-linking platelets.
3. 3.Blocks platelet aggregation regardless of which pathway activated the platelet.
4. 4.Reverses quickly after the infusion stops because it binds reversibly.
5. 5.Its cyclic structure gives it high affinity and resistance to breakdown.

• Percutaneous coronary intervention
• Non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome managed invasively
• Adjunct to heparin during stenting in the glycoprotein-inhibitor era

• Reduced composite cardiac events at 30 days in the PURSUIT and ESPRIT trials
• More major bleeding, particularly at access sites
• Profound but reversible platelet inhibition
• Thrombocytopenia in a small percentage of patients

• Major and minor bleeding
• Thrombocytopenia
• Hypotension
• Nausea
• Access-site complications
• Rare hypersensitivity

Research context only - a hospital drug. The PCI regimen is a 180 microgram per kilogram intravenous bolus followed by 2 micrograms per kilogram per minute, with a second bolus ten minutes later in the ESPRIT protocol and the infusion continued for 18 to 24 hours; platelet counts are checked during therapy.

Research context only