Which of the following are the two main types of antiplatelet agents?

The two main types of antiplatelet agents are indeed aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors. Aspirin works by irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), which in turn reduces the production of thromboxane A2, a potent promoter of platelet aggregation. This mechanism effectively decreases platelet activation and aggregation, making aspirin a foundational treatment in preventing cardiovascular events.

P2Y12 inhibitors, such as clopidogrel and ticagrelor, work through a different mechanism by blocking the P2Y12 receptor on platelets. This receptor, when activated by ADP (adenosine diphosphate), plays a crucial role in mediating platelet aggregation. By inhibiting this receptor, P2Y12 inhibitors prevent further platelet activation and aggregation, providing an essential therapeutic benefit in conditions like acute coronary syndrome and after stent placement.

While other choices include medications like ibuprofen, warfarin, and heparin, these do not fall under the specific category of antiplatelet agents as defined by their primary action on platelet function. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that has some antiplatelet effects, but it is not primarily