Abstract

The glycoprotein IIb / IIIa (GP IIb / IIIa) receptor is the most important receptor involved in platelet aggregation. A stable GP IIb / IIIa inhibition is required when a massive platelet activation triggers thrombosis. Three GP IIb / IIIa inhibitors are currently approved for clinical use: abciximab, tirofiban and integrilin. Their different pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties reflect a different efficacy in platelet inhibition.

Keywords: platelet aggregation inhibitors, glycoprotein, acute coronary syndromes, atherosclerotic plaque, percutaneous coronary intervention