What is the major purpose of antiplatelet therapy in coronary artery disease?

• A. To dissolve the blood clot
• B. To decrease tissue necrosis
• C. To inhibit hepatic synthesis of vitamin K
• D. To suppress platelet aggregation

Answer: (D)

Antiplatelet therapy in coronary artery disease is aimed at preventing clot formation by stopping platelets from clumping together. When a plaque ruptures in a coronary artery, platelets become activated and aggregate at the site, forming a thrombus that can further narrow or block blood flow. By inhibiting platelet aggregation, these drugs reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and unstable angina.

This approach does not dissolve an existing clot—that’s the role of thrombolytic (fibrinolytic) agents. It also doesn’t directly decrease tissue necrosis, and it isn’t about inhibiting hepatic synthesis of vitamin K (an action seen with certain anticoagulants like warfarin).