Ticagrelor: Effects, uses, side effects

How ticagrelor works The anticoagulant ticagrelor specifically inhibits a certain binding site on the surface of blood platelets (thrombocytes), the so-called P2Y12 receptor for ADP. This suppresses the activation of further platelets and also further “self-activation” of platelets. The combination of ticagrelor with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) in dual platelet inhibition additionally prevents the formation of … Ticagrelor: Effects, uses, side effects

Heparin: Effects, Uses, Side Effects

How heparin works Heparin is an anticoagulant polysaccharide (carbohydrate) that is stored in the body in the so-called mast cells and basophilic granulocytes – both subgroups of white blood cells (leukocytes) and important immune cells. If indicated, it can also be administered artificially from outside the body. Heparin is an important component in the control … Heparin: Effects, Uses, Side Effects

Dipyridamole: Effects, Uses & Risks

Dipyridamole is the name given to an active substance from the group of platelet aggregation inhibitors. The drug is used primarily for the prophylaxis of strokes. What is dipyridamole? Dipyridamole is the name given to a drug belonging to the group of platelet aggregation inhibitors. The drug is used primarily for the prophylaxis of strokes. … Dipyridamole: Effects, Uses & Risks

Varenicline for Smoking Cessation

Varenicline helps smokers quit smoking Quitting smoking presents an immense challenge to those affected. The chances of withdrawal success can be increased by nicotine replacement products such as patches or chewing gum. If these attempts fail, a possible alternative is therapy with varenicline. The drug has been tried and tested, and its positive effect on … Varenicline for Smoking Cessation

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: Treatment, Effects & Risks

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography (ERCP) is an X-ray-based imaging procedure. It is used to image the biliary and pancreatic ducts. This method is an invasive diagnostic procedure and therefore carries risks. What is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography? ERCP is an X-ray-based imaging procedure. It is used to image the biliary and pancreatic ducts. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreaticography is … Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: Treatment, Effects & Risks

Clopidogrel

Definition Clopidogrel is a drug from the antiplatelet family (thrombocyte aggregation inhibitors). The drug thus influences blood clotting, similar to aspirin. It is believed to prevent the blood platelets (thrombocytes) from binding together and forming clots. Indications Clopidogrel is used in various clinical pictures where there is an increased risk of blood clots (thrombi) forming … Clopidogrel

Weaning before surgery | Clopidogrel

Weaning before surgery Stopping clopidogrel carries the risk of unintentional blood clots forming and so-called thromboembolic events such as heart attacks or strokes. However, since there is always a risk of bleeding during surgery, clopidogrel must in most cases be discontinued at least 5 days before surgery. For operations with a low risk of bleeding, … Weaning before surgery | Clopidogrel