What is Tirofiban classified as?

Tirofiban is classified as a GP IIb/IIIa antagonist. This classification is significant because GP IIb/IIIa receptors are critical for platelet aggregation. By antagonizing these receptors, Tirofiban effectively inhibits the final common pathway of platelet activation, preventing fibrinogen binding and platelet cross-linking. This action is particularly beneficial in acute coronary syndrome and during percutaneous coronary interventions, as it reduces the risk of thrombus formation.

In contrast, aspirin derivatives act through a different mechanism by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, which reduces thromboxane A2 production and consequently decreases platelet activation. P2Y12 inhibitors, like clopidogrel, target the P2Y12 receptor to inhibit ADP-mediated activation of platelets. Thrombolytic agents, on the other hand, work by dissolving existing clots rather than preventing their formation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting appropriate antiplatelet therapy in clinical scenarios.