Platelet activation as a universal trigger in the pathogenesis of acute coronary events after cocaine abuse

K. P. Callahan, A. I. Malinin, D. Atar, V. L. Serebruany

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Numerous reports document the widespread use of cocaine in most parts of the world, which confers an increased risk of vascular morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms responsible for this association are multfactorial, but platelet activation might play a substantial role linking these events. Contradictory data exist regarding the cellular mechanisms of cocaine's effects on thrombocytes. In terms of therapeutic interventions, a possible activation of platelets would conceptually require more aggressive anti-platelet therapy with aspirin, clopidogrel or other compounds, however, no data exist to date to support this approach. Further studies elucidating these issues are warranted. This review summarizes the latest and often confusing data on the interaction between cocaine and platelets in certain in vitro, animal and clinical scenarios.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)487-489
Number of pages3
JournalSwiss Medical Weekly
Volume131
Issue number33-34
StatePublished - Aug 25 2001

Keywords

  • Cocaine
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Platelets

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Medicine(all)

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