Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction in the Elderly. Antithrombotic Therapy and Beyond

Abstract

Non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is the most frequent type of acute coronary syndrome in the elderly. Antithrombotic therapy is the cornerstone of pharmacological therapy in the setting of an acute ischemic event, a clinical scenario in which thrombotic and bleeding risks ought to be considered, particularly in older patients. In this article, specific aspects of antithrombotic therapy in elderly patients with NSTEMI are reviewed, including pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic characteristics and different clinical situations. The role of frailty and other common geriatric conditions, that are associated with worse prognosis in elderly patients with cardiovascular disease, is also addressed.

Keywords

• elderly
• acute coronary syndrome
• non-st segment elevation myocardial infarction
• antithrombotic therapy
• frailty