Science Advisory Advocates Dual Antiplatelet Therapy with Aspirin and Thienopyridine for one Year for Drug Eluting Stents

Henry I. Bussey, Pharm.D., FCCP, FAHA
February, 2007

Reference: A science advisory from the American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions, American College of Surgeons, and American Dental Association, with representation from the American College of Physicians. Prevention of Premature Discontinuation of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients With Coronary Artery Stents. Circulation. 2007;115:813-818.

There has been an intense focus recently in the clinical literature and by the FDA on the risk of late thrombosis in drug eluting stents. This science advisory warns against the potential harm of premature discontinuation of dual antiplatelet therapy in such patients and advocates a full year of such therapy after stent placement. Further, the advisory recommends that elective surgery be delayed until one year after stent placement if possible. If surgery is necessary, the group recommends that the aspirin component of the dual antiplatelet therapy be continued.