Future directions in antiplatelet therapy: efficacy versus safety

An improved understanding of the underlying mechanisms of platelet activation and thrombogenesis has led to the discovery of new antiplatelet agents. Various clinical studies have investigated the effectiveness of these new agents in comparison with ‘traditional’ antiplatelet drugs. The problem with this approach is that enhanced antiplatelet activity may result in excessive bleeding complications. Consequently, the challenge is to ascertain the fine balance between optimal efficacy and safety for future antiplatelet drugs and their combinations. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.