Which of the following drug classes requires PPI cover due to potential gastrointestinal risks?

Antiplatelets are known to increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications, particularly bleeding and ulcers, especially in certain populations or when used in combination with other medications that also have gastrointestinal risks. This potential for gastrointestinal harm necessitates the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to provide gastrointestinal protection when prescribing antiplatelet therapy.

Using PPIs alongside antiplatelets can help mitigate the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which is especially relevant for patients who are at higher risk, such as those with a history of peptic ulcers, older adults, or those on long-term antiplatelet therapy. This practice aligns with clinical guidelines that recommend the co-prescription of PPIs in specific situations, thereby enhancing patient safety.

On the other hand, while antidepressants, antibiotics, and statins have their own sets of side effects and potential risks, they do not have the same level of association with gastrointestinal complications that necessitate PPI cover. This distinction highlights the critical importance of understanding the therapeutic profiles of different drug classes to ensure appropriate patient management and safety.