A patient with a confirmed STEMI is allergic to aspirin. Which drug class is the standard alternative antiplatelet loading option at this stage?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. A P2Y12 inhibitor, such as clopidogrel

  1. Step 1: Aspirin is the first antiplatelet, but when it cannot be used a P2Y12 inhibitor is the alternative.
  2. Step 2: These agents block platelet aggregation through the ADP receptor.
Answer
A P2Y12 inhibitor, such as clopidogrel.
Why not the others: 'Warfarin as a loading dose' is an anticoagulant and not used for emergency antiplatelet loading; 'Heparin alone' is an anticoagulant and does not replace antiplatelet therapy; 'Furosemide to relieve congestion' is a diuretic with no antiplatelet effect.

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