The Balancing Act: A Rational Approach to Postintervention Dual Antiplatelet Therapy.

Abstract

Balancing the risks of ischemic and bleeding events in patients who have undergone coronary angioplasty with drug-eluting stents (DES) is a delicate task. Individuals recovering from myocardial infarction are at increased risk of recurrent ischemic events, highlighting the potential benefits of rigorous secondary prevention measures.¹ Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), combining aspirin with P2Y12 inhibitors such as clopidogrel or ticagrelor, forms the cornerstone of post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) care aimed at preventing stent thrombosis and lowering the risk of ischemic events. Current medical guidelines recommend a 6-month duration of DAPT for stable coronary disease and 12 months for acute coronary syndrome (ACS).