Antiplatelets, Anticoagulants, and Thrombolytics

In this lecture, Professor Zach Murphy presents a high-yield, in-depth review of Antiplatelets, Anticoagulants, and Thrombolytics, essential agents in the management of thromboembolic disorders. This video explores the mechanisms of action, clinical indications, side effects, and contraindications of these life-saving drugs, with clear explanations that connect physiology to pharmacology.

We begin with the antiplatelet agents, including aspirin, clopidogrel, prasugrel, ticagrelor, and GP IIb/IIIa inhibitors, breaking down how they interrupt platelet aggregation and when they’re used in clinical practice such as ACS, PCI, and stroke prevention. Zach then transitions into the anticoagulants, covering both parenteral agents like heparin and LMWH, and oral agents such as warfarin and DOACs (apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran). You’ll learn how these drugs inhibit clot formation, how to monitor them (e.g., PT/INR, aPTT), and how to reverse them in bleeding emergencies.

The lecture continues with a detailed overview of thrombolytics, such as alteplase (tPA) and reteplase, explaining their role in acute stroke, STEMI, and PE, while emphasizing the critical risks and benefits of fibrinolysis.

This session concludes with a digital breakdown of high-yield reversal agents, organized in a clear, comparative format to help you quickly recall which agents to use in life-threatening bleeding scenarios.

This lecture features clinical pearls, comparison charts, and board-style insights to prepare you for exams like USMLE, COMLEX, and PANCE. Whether you’re learning these drugs for the first time or reviewing for boards, this comprehensive guide will help you master one of the most high-yield pharmacology topics in medicine.

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