ticlopidine

Ticlopidine is an oral antiplatelet drug of the thienopyridine class, primarily used to reduce the risk of thrombotic stroke in patients who have experienced a stroke or are at high risk and cannot tolerate aspirin. It is also used in combination with aspirin to prevent blood clots following coronary stent implantation. Ticlopidine acts as a prodrug that, after hepatic metabolism, irreversibly inhibits the P2Y purinoceptor 12 (P2Y12) component of the ADP receptor on platelets. This inhibition prevents ADP-mediated activation of glycoprotein GPIIb/IIIa complex, thereby blocking platelet aggregation and reducing clot formation. The effect on platelets is irreversible for their lifespan; normal function returns only as new platelets are produced. Due to risks such as neutropenia, aplastic anemia, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), ticlopidine use is generally reserved for patients intolerant or allergic to aspirin[1][3][4][5]. Ticlopidine has largely been replaced by clopidogrel due to its improved safety profile but may still be used when other options are unsuitable[8]. Monitoring blood counts during therapy is essential due to potential hematologic toxicity.

Brand names

Ticlid

Other names

ticlopidine HClticlopidine hydrochlorideticlopidine