Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026

Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function
Published on: November 8, 2024
Prasugrel, a third generation thienopyridine and potent platelet inhibitor
Paul A Gurbel1, Udaya S Tantry
1Sinai Center for Thrombosis Research, Hoffberger Building, Suite 56, 2401 West Belvedere Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21215, USA. pgurbel@lifebridgehealth.org
Prasugrel, a novel antiplatelet medication, is nearing US approval for preventing blood clots in stroke and heart attack patients. This third-generation thienopyridine derivative shows promise in treating thromboembolism.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Thromboembolic events remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in patients with ischemic strokes and acute coronary syndromes.
- Existing antiplatelet therapies have limitations, necessitating the development of more effective agents.
- Thienopyridine derivatives represent a class of drugs with potent antiplatelet activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of prasugrel, a novel thienopyridine derivative, for the prevention of thromboembolism.
- To assess the potential of prasugrel as a treatment option for patients experiencing ischemic strokes or acute coronary syndromes.
Main Methods:
- Prasugrel is a third-generation thienopyridine derivative currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials.
- Development is being conducted by Eli Lilly & Co and Daiichi Sankyo Co Ltd.
- The drug is being investigated for its therapeutic potential in managing thromboembolic conditions.
Main Results:
- Prasugrel has successfully completed Phase III clinical trials in Western Europe and Japan.
- The drug has demonstrated efficacy in preclinical and clinical studies for preventing blood clot formation.
- Regulatory approval is pending in the United States.
Conclusions:
- Prasugrel is poised to become a valuable therapeutic option for patients at risk of thromboembolic events.
- The drug's anticipated launch in the US by the end of 2008 signifies a potential advancement in cardiovascular pharmacotherapy.
- Further post-marketing surveillance will be crucial to fully understand its long-term impact.
Related Concept Videos
Antiplatelet Drugs: Prostaglandin Synthesis, P2Y12 and Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors
Prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors, exemplified by the widely known aspirin, wield their power by irreversibly acetylating...
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Prostacyclin Receptor Agonists
These agonists bind to the IPR receptor situated on the plasma membrane of the pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells. This binding triggers a cascade of reactions known as the GS-AC-cAMP-PKA pathway. This pathway results in the relaxation of smooth muscle...
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Formation of the Platelet Plug
As the injured blood vessel contracts, endothelial cells undergo contraction, revealing collagen fibers in the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue. Furthermore, the plasma membrane of endothelial cells becomes adhesive, preparing the site for platelet adhesion. Platelets...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Anticoagulant Drugs: Vitamin K Antagonists and Direct Oral Anticoagulants
Warfarin, a prominent vitamin K antagonist family member, exerts its effect by inhibiting the enzyme VKORC1 (vitamin K epoxide reductase complex 1). By hindering this enzyme, warfarin...

