Cangrelor is the only intravenous
P2Y12 receptor antagonist. It is an
adenosine triphosphate analog that selectively, directly, and reversibly binds to the platelet P2Y12 receptors exerting its antiaggregatory effect.
Cangrelor is characterized by linear, dose-dependent pharmacokinetics and rapid onset of action providing potent platelet inhibition exceeding 90%.
Cangrelor is rapidly metabolized by endothelial endonucleotidase; thus, its half-life is 2.9 to 5.5 min, and its antiplatelet effect subsides within 60 to 90 min. Data originating from three pivotal
cangrelor trials (CHAMPION PLATFORM, CHAMPION PCI, and CHAMPION PHOENIX) indicate that
cangrelor reduces the risk of periprocedural thrombotic complications during
percutaneous coronary intervention at the expense of mild bleedings. Its unique pharmacological properties allow it to overcome the limitations of oral P2Y12 receptor inhibitors, mainly related to the delayed and decreased bioavailability and antiplatelet effect of these agents, which are often observed in the setting of
acute coronary syndrome. Subgroups of patients who could theoretically benefit the most from
cangrelor include those in whom pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oral
P2Y12 receptor antagonists are most disturbed, namely patients with
ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, those treated with
opioids, with mild
therapeutic hypothermia, or in
cardiogenic shock.
Cangrelor could also be useful if bridging is required in patients undergoing surgery. According to the current guidelines
cangrelor may be considered in P2Y12 receptor inhibitor-naïve patients undergoing
percutaneous coronary intervention in both acute and stable settings.