Incorporating platelet glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibition in critical pathways: unstable angina/non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitors have been shown to be effective in reducing thrombotic events in patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and when used as medical therapy in patients with unstable angina/non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI). Recent findings include dramatic preventive benefits in the setting of coronary stent deployment and a significant long-term preventive effect on mortality. The benefits of GP IIb/IIIa receptor inhibition suggest the utility of adopting routine use of these agents in critical pathways of unstable angina/non-ST-segment elevation MI and PCI. Because cost constraints may limit use of these agents, however, targeting treatment based on patient risk assessment may be warranted.