Which antiplatelet agent is commonly used during cardiac catheterizations?

During cardiac catheterizations, antiplatelet agents play a crucial role in preventing thrombus formation and ensuring optimal outcomes for patients undergoing procedures like percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Aspirin (ASA) is widely used due to its ability to irreversibly inhibit cyclooxygenase-1, leading to a decrease in thromboxane A2 production, which results in reduced platelet activation and aggregation. Clopidogrel (Plavix) works by irreversibly inhibiting the P2Y12 receptor on platelet cells, making it effective for patients who may have contraindications to aspirin or in combination therapy to enhance antiplatelet efficacy. Ticagrelor (Brilinta) is another antiplatelet agent that acts similarly to clopidogrel but has a faster onset and a reversible action, allowing it to provide quick antithrombotic effects necessary during high-risk procedures.

All these medications can be utilized individually or in combination depending on patient-specific factors, such as their risk of developing clots and responses to treatment. Therefore, the use of any or all of these antiplatelet agents is common during cardiac catheterizations to improve clinical outcomes and minimize the risk of thrombotic events.