Vasoactive and antiplatelet agents are medications used in the treatment of various dermatological conditions. Vasoactive agents work by causing blood vessels to constrict or dilate, while antiplatelet agents prevent platelets from sticking together and forming clots. In dermatology, vasoactive agents such as calcium channel blockers and alpha-adrenergic agonists are used to treat conditions such as Raynaud’s disease and chronic venous insufficiency. Antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, clopidogrel, and dipyridamole are used in the treatment and prevention of conditions associated with abnormal blood clotting, such as thrombosis and thromboembolism.
The use of vasoactive and antiplatelet agents in dermatology is a complex topic that requires a thorough understanding of their pharmacology, indications, and potential side effects. Dermatologists must carefully evaluate each patient’s medical history and current medications before prescribing these agents, as they can interact with other drugs and exacerbate underlying medical conditions. Furthermore, the use of vasoactive and antiplatelet agents in dermatology may require a multidisciplinary approach, involving other healthcare providers such as cardiologists and vascular surgeons.
In this learning module, you will find a comprehensive review of the different vasoactive and antiplatelet agents used in dermatology, their mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, adverse effects, and drug interactions.
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Sources
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Bolognia, J., Cerroni, L., & Schaffer, J. V. (2018). Dermatology. Philadelphia: Elsevier.
- Wolverton, S. E. (2021). Comprehensive dermatologic drug therapy. Edinburgh: Saunders.

Release Date: March 27, 2023
Last Updated: March 27, 2023
Time to complete: 30 minutes
Authors:
- Dr. Zeinah Alhalees, MD, University of British Columbia.
- Dr. Naif Aljahani, MD, Prince Sultan Military Medical City.
- Dr. Christina Nguyen, MD, McGill University.
- Dr. Rahul Nanda, MD, McGill University.
- Dr. Elena Netchiporouk, MD, McGill University.