The important role of the P2Y12 receptor in amplification of platelet activation and
associated responses and the limitations associated with clopidogrel therapy have
led to the development of novel inhibitors of this receptor. Three reversibly-binding
P2Y12 inhibitors are in phase 3 development, ticagrelor, cangrelor and elinogrel.
The pharmacology and clinical trial data for each of these inhibitors are discussed
and compared with relevant data for the thienopyridines clopidogrel and prasugrel.
Keywords
ADP receptors - antiplatelet agents - arterial thrombosis - platelet pharmacology
- antiplatelet drugs