Antiplatelet Drugs · Pharmacology

Why does low-dose Aspirin (81mg) exhibit selectivity for inhibiting platelet COX-1 over systemic COX-2?

  1. COX-2 is not found in the human body
  2. Aspirin has a much higher affinity for COX-1
  3. Platelets are anucleate and cannot replace COX-1
  4. Aspirin is only absorbed in the presence of platelets
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Platelets are anucleate and cannot replace COX-1

Since platelets are anucleated, they cannot synthesize new proteins. Once Aspirin inhibits their COX-1, the effect lasts for the platelet's lifespan. Endothelial cells, however, can synthesize new COX enzymes, allowing systemic PGI2 production to recover.

Difficulty: Medium Question 19 of 20

Practice all 20 Antiplatelet Drugs questions

Keep practicing

More Antiplatelet Drugs questions