Abciximab: The First Platelet Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Receptor Antagonist

Platelet aggregation plays a crucial role in the development of the life-threatening thrombosis responsible for such acute coronary syndromes as myocardial infarction and unstable angina pectoris. Although aspirin has traditionally been the mainstay of antiplatelet therapy, it is neither potent nor specific enough to provide adequate protection against thrombosis. The identification of glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa as the key platelet receptor in the final common pathway of platelet aggregation and the development of therapeutic agents that block this receptor have opened up an entirely new dimension in cardiovascular medicine.