In the initial management of suspected acute coronary syndrome, which medication is commonly given as an antiplatelet?

• A. Morphine
• B. Aspirin
• C. Nitroglycerin
• D. Oxygen

Answer: (B)

Early antiplatelet therapy is essential in suspected acute coronary syndrome to limit platelet aggregation and thrombus growth, reducing mortality and infarct size. Aspirin fits this role best because it irreversibly inhibits COX-1 in platelets, blocking thromboxane A2 formation and thereby preventing platelet clumping. Since platelets cannot synthesize new COX, the antiplatelet effect lasts for the platelet’s lifetime, giving a rapid and enduring benefit after a single dose. In the acute setting, a chewable dose of aspirin (typically 162–325 mg) is given promptly to hasten absorption, unless there are contraindications, and is often continued at a low daily dose as part of ongoing therapy. The other options treat symptoms or provide relief (pain, vasodilation, or oxygen delivery) but do not directly inhibit platelet aggregation, so they don’t fulfill the antiplatelet role described.