New antiplatelet therapies for acute coronary syndromes.

Platelets play a central role in the pathophysiology of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Dual antiplatelet therapy has resulted in significant advances in the treatment of ACS; however, ACS remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Important limitations exist among the current antiplatelet agents and therefore a pressing need for the development of improved antiplatelet agents exists. Three antiplatelet agents currently under investigation (prasugrel, AZD6140, and cangrelor) in clinical trials for the treatment of ACS appear promising.