Definition

A prolonged-release tablet formulation containing the quinazoline anagrelide, with antiplatelet activity. Although the exact mechanism of action through which anagrelide exerts its effect has yet to be fully elucidated, this agent inhibits the maturation of megakaryocytes into platelets, which reduces platelet production. Anagrelide also inhibits cyclic AMP phosphodiesterase III (PDEIII), which prevents PDEIII-mediated platelet aggregation. This may prevent essential thrombocythemia and thrombosis.