In the management of suspected acute coronary syndrome, which medication should be given to reduce platelet aggregation?

• A. Acetaminophen
• B. Aspirin 162 mg
• C. Vitamin C
• D. Diazepam

Answer: (B)

Prompt aspirin therapy is the key concept here. In suspected acute coronary syndrome, giving an antiplatelet agent quickly helps prevent further platelet clumping and thrombus formation, which can worsen myocardial ischemia.

Aspirin at 162 mg is used because chewing it allows rapid onset and maximizes platelet inhibition. It works by irreversibly inhibiting COX-1 in platelets, reducing thromboxane A2 production, which decreases platelet aggregation and helps restore blood flow to the heart.

The other options do not provide this antiplatelet effect: acetaminophen is only for pain and fever, not to affect platelets; vitamin C has no antiplatelet action relevant to ACS; diazepam serves as a sedative or anxiolytic and does not treat the underlying coronary issue.

Administer aspirin promptly unless there are contraindications such as allergy or active major bleeding.