Cangrelor in percutaneous coronary intervention.

Cangrelor is a novel, intravenous P2Y12 receptor antagonist in development for use in percutaneous coronary intervention. Currently in Phase III testing, the reversible platelet inhibitor provides several inherent advantages over other P2Y12 receptor antagonists in this setting for the prevention of adverse cardiac events. Unlike the class of thienopyridines (ticlopidine, clopidogrel and potentially soon to be available, prasugrel), cangrelor has nearly immediate onset after a bolus dose and a short half-life, and achieves maximal inhibition of ADP-mediated platelet function. Cangrelor's distinct mechanism of action allows for intravenous administration and avoids both hepatic and renal metabolism. These unique characteristics make cangrelor a promising agent for use in cardiovascular patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.