Examples

Generic NameBrand Name
abciximab ReoPro
eptifibatide Integrilin
tirofiban Aggrastat

How It Works

These medicines prevent the formation of blood clots. They can help prevent blood clots in the coronary arteries after a heart attack.

Why It Is Used

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors might be used with angioplasty after a heart attack. But they are not used for everyone.

How Well It Works

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors may help certain people who have angioplasty after a heart attack, such as people who are at high risk for serious blood clots.1

Side Effects

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors are given in the hospital. So a person is watched closely for any side effects.

Bleeding inside the body is the most common side effect.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors are only used in the hospital.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

References

Citations

  1. O'Gara PT, et al. (2013). 2013 ACCF/AHA guideline for the management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction: Executive summary. A report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Practice Guidelines. Circulation, 127(4): e362–e425.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerRakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Specialist Medical ReviewerStephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC - Interventional Cardiology

Current as ofMarch 12, 2014

Current as of: March 12, 2014

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology & Stephen Fort, MD, MRCP, FRCPC - Interventional Cardiology