Activity Content
Acute coronary syndrome (ACS), including non-ST-segment elevation (NSTE) ACS and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), is the leading cause of death in the western world. This program provides pharmacists with an overview of ACS pathophysiology and management, focusing on anticoagulant therapy. Key patient assessment components that differentiate between NSTE ACS and STEMI are described. The pharmacotherapy of anticoagulants, including unfractionated heparin, low molecular weight heparin, pentasaccharides, and direct thrombin inhibitors, is reviewed and applied to the role of these agents in ACS. Clinical evidence that established the efficacy of these agents in ACS is presented and recent clinical trials are introduced.
