Long-term (12 months) vs. short-term (<12 months) dual antiplatelet therapy post-percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents: a critical appraisal and systematic review

BACKGROUND

A growing body of evidence supports short-term DAPT as safe and efficacious following PCI with DES. However, methodological criticism of RCTs has led to caution when translating results into clinical practice. This study aimed to critically appraise the methodological rigour of included studies and consolidate the evidence on the safety and efficacy of short-term DAPT.

METHODS

Medline, Cochrane Library and Embase were searched from inception until August 2022. The primary outcome was the methodological quality of published primary studies. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0 and the CASP tool. Evidence was rated for quality using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) score approach. Other endpoints were all-cause mortality and major bleeding.

RESULTS

Eighteen RCTs were included. Based on GRADE score, there was a moderate level of certainty that the reported results for both outcomes are probably close to the true effect. A total of 78% (14/18) of RCTs had a low risk of bias when assessing all-cause mortality and 61% (11/18) when assessing major bleeding. The CASP tool confirmed methodological rigour; however, only 33% (6/18) of studies were applicable beyond the studied populations. Compared with 12 months of DAPT, short-term DAPT was associated with a reduced risk of major bleeding [relative risk (RR): 0.69, 95% CI: 0.54-0.88, P = 0.003, I2 = 45%] and trended towards a reduced risk in all-cause mortality (RR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.79-1.01, P = 0.08, I2 = 0%).

CONCLUSION

With moderate certainty evidence, short-term DAPT appears safe and efficacious post-PCI with DES in the studied populations.

Association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and bleeding in dual antiplatelet therapy age: a retrospective observational study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) with bleeding events among patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) received dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention.

DESIGN

An observational and multicentre study was conducted among non-ST-segment elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS).

SETTING

The study was conducted at five medical centres in China.

PARTICIPANTS

This study retrospectively included 2583 adults with NSTE-ACS between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2014.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was major bleeding, defined by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium definition (grades 3-5). The second outcome was death and any bleeding.

RESULTS

53 (2.1%) patients experienced major bleeding in the hospital. Patients with hs-CRP levels greater than 8.20 mg/L had the highest incidence of in-hospital major bleeding (25 (3.9%), p<0.001) compared with the other groups. Multivariable analysis indicated that hs-CRP was an independent factor associated with in-hospital major bleeding (continuous: adjusted OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.02, p<0.001; quartiles: adjusted OR for quartile 4 (referring to quartile 1) =3.71, 95% CI: 1.35~10.23, p=0.011), which was further confirmed by subgroup analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves. The restricted cubic spline analysis demonstrated an S-shaped association between hs-CRP and major bleeding. During the 5-year follow-up, there was a significantly high risk of bleeding in patients with higher hs-CRP levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic inflammation marker hs-CRP in patients with NSTE-ACS who received DAPT is associated with a high risk of in-hospital major bleeding. An S-shaped association was found between hs-CRP and bleeding events. Further studies are warranted to optimise antithrombotic drug therapy in high bleeding risk patients during follow-up.

Understanding Noninferiority Trials: What Stroke Specialists Should Know

Noninferiority trials aim to prove that the efficacy, defined in terms of a key clinical outcome, of a new treatment is not meaningfully worse than that of an established active control. Noninferiority trials are important when other aspects of care can be improved, such as convenience, toxicity, costs, and safety (nonefficacy benefits). While the motivation for a noninferiority trial is straightforward, the design, execution, and interpretation of these trials is not a trivial task. Several safeguards that protect superiority trials from incorrect conclusions do not apply or even work in reverse for noninferiority trials. This review aims to provide stroke clinicians and researchers with a general overview of noninferiority trials and a deeper understanding of 10 pitfalls they should consider when designing and interpreting such trials.

Relevance of High Bleeding Risk and Postdischarge Bleeding in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Bleeding avoidance strategies are critical in the modern era of percutaneous coronary intervention; however, most efforts are geared toward reducing access-related complications. Improvements in procedural techniques (radial access, improved procedural anticoagulation regimens, etc) and modifications in postdischarge pharmacotherapy (shortened dual antiplatelet therapy, genotype-guided P2Y12 inhibition, etc) that led to a decline in bleeding related to percutaneous procedures were largely offset by increases in complexity and performance of percutaneous coronary intervention in high-risk patients. Among patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, aggressive antiplatelet regimens with potent P2Y12 inhibitors are typically prescribed for a longer duration, prioritizing reduction in ischemic events over bleeding risk. Because postdischarge bleeding connotes an adverse prognosis similar to an ischemic event, postprocedure freedom from adverse outcomes can be best tailored by individualizing and recognizing the patient's bleeding and ischemic risks. This review of the contemporary and historical literature (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library) summarizes the available data, provides strategies to navigate these complex decisions, and helps individualize antithrombotic therapy.

Sex Differences in the Safety and Efficacy of Different Durations of DAPT After PCI

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have examined the clinical impact of abbreviating the duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) and have reported outcomes in men and women.

Objectives

The authors examined the safety and efficacy of different durations of DAPT following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in men and women.

Methods

We searched Cochrane, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for RCTs that compared any 2 of 1, 3, 6, or 12 months of DAPT after PCI and reported outcomes in men and women. We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis to examine sex-based differences in net adverse clinical events (NACE), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and bleeding.

Results

Fifteen RCTs were included, comprising 44,610 men (74.7%) and 15,132 women (25.3%). No difference in NACE or MACE was observed between 1, 3, 6, or 12 months of DAPT in both sexes. In both men and women, 1 and 3 months of DAPT were each associated with lower risk of bleeding compared with 12 months of DAPT. In women, 3 months of DAPT was associated with a lower risk of bleeding compared with 6 months. Similar results were found in sensitivity analysis of acute coronary syndrome-only trials.

Conclusions

No significant sex-based differences in NACE or MACE were observed with different durations of DAPT after PCI, while a lower bleeding risk was observed with shorter DAPT (1-3 months) among both sexes. This suggests that shorter DAPT may be preferred in both sexes following PCI, especially in those with high bleeding risk.

Therapeutic strategies aiming at the reduction of the antiplatelet intensity should not overlook the ischemic risk in patients with coronary syndromes

De-escalation of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is gaining traction as a strategy to reduce bleeding risks while ensuring ischemic outcomes. Undiscriminating de-escalation, notably in patients with high ischemic risk, might expose them to major adverse cardiac events. Platelet function and genetic tests are emerging tools to guide de-escalation, but both present specific drawbacks. Recent meta-analyses have aimed to consolidate the findings of individual trials to provide clearer insights. Yet, limitations remain for patients with concomitant high bleeding and ischemic risks. These high-risk patients are frequently underrepresented in clinical trials, and, therefore, currently available guidelines lack evidence-based recommendations for this subset. While DAPT de-escalation strategies hold promise, the choice of approach, whether clinically or assay-guided, remains complex and should be individualized.

Aspirin vs. clopidogrel monotherapy after percutaneous coronary intervention: 1-year follow-up of the STOPDAPT-3 trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

There was no previous trial comparing aspirin monotherapy with a P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy following short dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents.

METHODS

In the STOPDAPT-3, patients with acute coronary syndrome or high bleeding risk (HBR) were randomly assigned to either 1-month dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and prasugrel followed by aspirin monotherapy (aspirin group) or 1-month prasugrel monotherapy followed by clopidogrel monotherapy (clopidogrel group). This secondary analysis compared aspirin monotherapy with clopidogrel monotherapy by the 30-day landmark analysis. The co-primary endpoints were the cardiovascular endpoint defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, definite stent thrombosis, or ischaemic stroke and the bleeding endpoint defined as Bleeding Academic Research Consortium 3 or 5.

RESULTS

Of the 6002 assigned patients, 5833 patients (aspirin group: N = 2920 and clopidogrel group: N = 2913) were included in the 30-day landmark analysis. Median age was 73 (interquartile range 64-80) years, women 23.4%, acute coronary syndrome 74.6%, and high bleeding risk 54.1%. The assigned monotherapy was continued at 1 year in 87.5% and 87.2% in the aspirin and clopidogrel groups, respectively. The incidence rates beyond 30 days and up to 1 year were similar between the aspirin and clopidogrel groups for both cardiovascular endpoint [4.5 and 4.5 per 100 person-year, hazard ratio 1.00 (95% confidence interval .77-1.30), P = .97], and bleeding endpoint [2.0 and 1.9, hazard ratio 1.02 (95% confidence interval .69-1.52), P = .92].

CONCLUSIONS

Aspirin monotherapy compared with clopidogrel monotherapy was associated with similar cardiovascular and bleeding outcomes beyond 1 month and up to 1 year after percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stents (STOPDAPT-3 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04609111).

Antiplatelet Strategy for Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Optimal duration and choice of antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention remain controversial.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Digital databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase) were queried to select all randomized controlled trials on a post-percutaneous coronary intervention population with acute coronary syndrome. Dual-antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and clopidogrel for 12 months was compared with 4 major strategies: high-potency, high- to low-potency, low-dose, and short-duration DAPT. A network meta-analysis was performed to compare the safety and efficacy of different antiplatelet strategies. This study was the second updated manuscript under the International Prospective Register of Systematic Review registration (CRD42021286552). Thirty-two randomized controlled trials comprising 103 459 (51 750 experimental, 51 709 control) patients were included. Compared with DAPT with aspirin and clopidogrel for 12 months, high- to low-potency DAPT (risk ratio [RR], 0.69 [95% CI, 0.52-0.92]) and aspirin+prasugrel containing DAPT for 12 months (RR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.72-0.98]) had a significantly lower, whereas DAPT for 1 month followed by clopidogrel only (RR, 1.59 [95% CI, 1.06-2.39]) had a higher, incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events at 1 year (median follow-up). Prasugrel (RR, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.09-1.66]) and ticagrelor (RR, 1.38 [95% CI, 1.17-1.62]) containing DAPT for 12 months had significantly higher rates, whereas high- to low-potency DAPT (RR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.63-1.15]) had no significant risk of major bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Aspirin and ticagrelor for 3 months, followed by aspirin and clopidogrel for the remaining duration, can be considered the optimal strategy for treating post-percutaneous coronary intervention patients with acute coronary syndrome because of a significantly reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events without increasing the risk of bleeding.

Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndromes

The antithrombotic management of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) involves a 6-month course of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), followed by chronic aspirin therapy. In patients with a baseline indication for anticoagulation, a variable duration of triple antithrombotic therapy is administered, followed by dual antithrombotic therapy until the sixth month post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and ultimately a transition to chronic anticoagulation. However, advancements in stent technology reducing the risk of stent thrombosis and a growing focus on the impact of bleeding on prognosis have prompted the development of new therapeutic strategies. These strategies aim to enhance protection against ischemic events in the initial stages after PCI while mitigating the risk of bleeding in the long term. This article delineates the therapeutic strategies outlined in European and American guidelines for CCS management, with special attention to investigational strategies.

Does one size really fit all? The case for personalized antiplatelet therapy in interventional cardiology

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), with aspirin plus a P2Y12 inhibitor, is currently recommended as a default for patients after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, controversies arise over the role of aspirin, the optimal duration of DAPT after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation, the choice of P2Y12 inhibitor and the variability in individual responses to antiplatelet agents. Recent data indicate that monotherapy with a P2Y12 inhibitor may have adequate anti-ischemic effects with lower bleeding risk. Additionally, discrepancies in DAPT duration recommendations and the optimal P2Y12 inhibitor, provides more uncertainty. We ask the question "does one size really fits all?" or should a more personalized strategy should be implemented.

Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

Background

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) comprise more than a quarter of all patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention and are at higher risk of adverse events. We sought to reexamine the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) postpercutaneous coronary intervention in patients with DM.

Methods

We systematically included randomized controlled trials comparing any 2 of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months of DAPT that reported major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), net adverse clinical events (NACE), bleeding, or stent thrombosis in DM, and performed a frequentist network meta-analysis. We also performed a sensitivity analysis of trials that exclusively enrolled patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Results

In 16 randomized controlled trials comprising 16,376 adults with DM, there was no significant difference in NACE, MACE, stent thrombosis, or major bleeding between pairwise comparisons of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months of DAPT, except for a signal for lower bleeding with 3 months of DAPT compared to 12 (risk ratio, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.51-0.99). Sensitivity analysis of trials that solely included acute coronary syndrome similarly showed no significant difference in MACE between 1, 3, 6, and 12 months of DAPT.

Conclusions

Our study found no meaningful difference in NACE or MACE between pairwise comparisons of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months of DAPT by study-level meta-analysis of patients with DM, with lower bleeding risk observed with 3 months than with 12 months of DAPT. This finding may provide clinicians greater flexibility to personalize patients' DAPT duration based on other non-DM comorbidities that might affect bleeding or thrombosis risk.

Sex-Based Outcomes of Dual-Antiplatelet Therapy After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Pairwise and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Although dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) improves the outcomes of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), sex-specific differences in efficacy and safety of DAPT remain unresolved. We compared sex differences for DAPT outcomes and DAPT durations (1-3 months [short-term], 6 months [mid-term], and >12 months [extended] vs. 12 months).

METHODS

We searched databases through 31 December 2023 for trials reporting DAPT after PCI. The endpoints were major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), net adverse clinical and cerebrovascular events (NACCE), and any bleeding. Extracted data were pooled in a frequentist network and pairwise, random-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Twenty-two trials (99,591 participants, 25.2% female) were included. Female sex was significantly associated with a higher 1-year MACCE risk (hazard ratio 1.14 [95% confidence interval 1.02-1.28]) and bleeding (1.13 [1.00-1.28]), but not NACCE (1.12 [0.96-1.31]). In sub-analyses, the association between female sex and MACCE was related to use of clopidogrel as the second antiplatelet agent (1.11 [1.03-1.20]), whereas higher bleeding events were related to newer P2Y12 inhibitors (P2Y12i) (1.58 [1.01-2.46]). For DAPT duration, short-term DAPT followed by P2Y12i monotherapy was non-inferior for MACCE in females and males (0.95 [95% CI 0.83-1.10; and 0.96 [0.80-1.16]) but tended to be superior in males for NACCE versus 12-month DAPT (0.96 [0.91-1.01]); mid-term DAPT tended to be associated with a lower bleeding risk in males (0.43 [0.17-1.09]).

CONCLUSIONS

Female sex is associated with higher MACCE and bleeding when newer P2Y12i agents are used. Short-term DAPT followed by P2Y12i monotherapy is safe and effective in both sexes undergoing PCI.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

PROSPERO ID: CRD42021278663.

Preferred monotherapy after short-term dual antiplatelet therapy: Systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials

BACKGROUND

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy following short-term dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, no studies have compared P2Y12 inhibitor and aspirin monotherapy following short-term DAPT. We aimed to compare available strategies for DAPT duration and post-DAPT antiplatelet monotherapy following PCI.

METHODS

Seven DAPT strategies [ticagrelor or clopidogrel following 1-month DAPT, ticagrelor following 3-month DAPT, aspirin following 3-6 months of DAPT (reference strategy), aspirin or P2Y12 inhibitor following 6-18-months of DAPT, and DAPT for ≥18 months] were compared using a network meta-analysis. The primary efficacy outcome was defined as a composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The primary bleeding outcome was trial-defined major or minor bleeding.

RESULTS

Our analysis identified 25 eligible RCTs, including 89,371 patients who underwent PCI. Overall, none of the strategies negatively affected the primary efficacy outcomes. For primary bleeding outcomes, ticagrelor following 3-month DAPT was associated with a reduced risk of primary bleeding outcomes (HR 0.73; 95 % CI 0.57-0.95). Clopidogrel following 1-month DAPT was also associated with a reduced risk of primary bleeding outcomes (HR 0.54; 95 % CI 0.34-0.85), however, the strategy was associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis. Similar trends were observed among patients with acute coronary syndrome and high bleeding risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with aspirin monotherapy following short-term DAPT, ticagrelor following 3-month DAPT was associated with a reduced risk of primary bleeding outcomes without increasing any ischemic outcomes.

Shorter Dual Antiplatelet Therapy for Older Adults After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

IMPORTANCE

The optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) for older adults after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is uncertain because they are simultaneously at higher risk for both ischemic and bleeding events.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of abbreviated DAPT with adverse clinical events among older adults after PCI.

DATA SOURCES

The Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from inception to August 9, 2023.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized clinical trials comparing any 2 of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months of DAPT were included if they reported results for adults aged 65 years or older or 75 years or older.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline was used to abstract data and assess data quality. Risk ratios for each duration of DAPT were calculated with alternation of the reference group.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome of interest was net adverse clinical events (NACE). Secondary outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and bleeding.

RESULTS

In 14 randomized clinical trials comprising 19 102 older adults, no differences were observed in the risks of NACE or MACE for 1, 3, 6, and 12 months of DAPT. However, 3 months of DAPT was associated with a lower risk of bleeding compared with 6 months of DAPT (relative risk [RR], 0.50 [95% CI, 0.29-0.84]) and 12 months of DAPT (RR, 0.57 [95% CI, 0.45-0.71]) among older adults. One month of DAPT was also associated with a lower risk of bleeding compared with 6 months of DAPT (RR, 0.68 [95% CI, 0.54-0.86]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this systematic review and meta-analysis of different durations of DAPT for older adults after PCI, an abbreviated DAPT duration was associated with a lower risk of bleeding without any concomitant increase in the risk of MACE or NACE despite the concern for higher-risk coronary anatomy and comorbidities among older adults. This study, which represents the first network meta-analysis of this shortened treatment for older adults, suggests that clinicians may consider abbreviating DAPT for older adults.

Effects of sodium ferulate for injection on anticoagulation of warfarin in rats in vivo

BACKGROUND

Herb-drug interactions may result in increased adverse drug reactions or diminished drug efficacy, especially for drugs with a narrow therapeutic index such as warfarin. The current study investigates the effects of sodium ferulate for injection (SFI) on anticoagulation of warfarin from aspects of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics in rats and predicts the risk of the combination use.

METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into different groups and administered single- or multiple-dose of warfarin (0.2 mg/kg) with or without SFI of low dose (8.93 mg/kg) or high dose (26.79 mg/kg). Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were detected by a blood coagulation analyzer, and international normalized ratio (INR) values were calculated. UPLC-MS/MS was conducted to measure concentrations of warfarin enantiomers and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by DAS2.0 software.

RESULTS

The single-dose study demonstrated that SFI alone had no effect on coagulation indices, but significantly decreased PT and INR values of warfarin when the two drugs were co-administered (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), while APTT values unaffected (P > 0.05). Cmax and AUC of R/S-warfarin decreased but CL increased significantly in presence of SFI (P < 0.01). The multiple-dose study showed that PT, APTT, INR, and concentrations of R/S-warfarin decreased significantly when SFI was co-administered with warfarin (P < 0.01). Warfarin plasma protein binding rate was not significantly changed by SFI (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study implied that SFI could accelerate warfarin metabolism and weaken its anticoagulation intensity in rats.

Effects of Tirofiban in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction and Diabetes Mellitus undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of early vs. late tirofiban administration in the treatment of patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and diabetes mellitus (DM) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI).

METHODS

120 patients with STEMI and DM treated with pPCI were randomly divided into an observation group (n=60) and a control group (n=60). The observation group and the control group were intravenously injected with a bolus of tirofiban preoperatively or intraoperatively, respectively; both groups were then given an intravenous infusion over 24 h at 0.15 μg/kg/min. Thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) grade flow, myocardial perfusion index, and functional heart parameters, as well as major adverse cardiovascular events and bleeding, were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Functional heart parameters, including left ventricular ejection fraction and cardiac output, were significantly improved in the observation group 6 months after discharge. Thrombus aspiration, inflammatory factors, and cardiac troponin I (cTNI) were more significantly decreased in the observation group than in the control group. The sum-ST-segment elevation at 2 h after pPCI treatment in the observation group was better than that in the control group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions and bleeding between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The administration of tirofiban before reperfusion therapy compared with after reperfusion therapy is more effective in reducing the hyperthrombotic load, thrombus aspiration, inflammatory factors, and cTNI and can effectively improve myocardial perfusion and heart function.

Efficacy and Safety of Long-Term Dual Antiplatelet Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor is a standard therapy in patients with ischemic vascular diseases (IVD) including coronary artery, cerebrovascular and peripheral arterial diseases, although the optimal duration of this treatment is still debated. Previous meta-analyses reported conflicting results about the effects of long-term and short-term as well as non-DAPT use in various clinical settings. Herein, we conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of different durations of DAPT.

METHODS

We reviewed relevant articles and references from database, which were published prior to April 2023. Data from prospective studies were processed using RevMan5.0 software, provided by Cochrane Collaboration and transformed using relevant formulas. The inclusion criteria involved randomization to long-term versus short-term or no DAPT; the endpoints included at least one of total or cardiovascular (CV) mortalities, IVD recurrence, and bleeding.

RESULTS

A total of 34 randomized studies involving 141 455 patients were finally included. In comparison with no or short-term DAPT, long-term DAPT reduced MI and stroke, but did not reduce the total and CV mortalities. Meanwhile, bleeding events were increased, even though intracranial and fatal bleedings were not affected. Besides, the reduction of MI and stroke recurrence showed no statistical significance between long-term and short-term DAPT groups.

CONCLUSION

Long-term DAPT may not reduce the mortality of IVD besides increasing bleeding events, although reduced the incidences of MI and stroke early recurrence to a certain extent and did not increase the risk of fatal intracranial bleeding.

Shortened Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Contemporary Clinical Review

Percutaneous coronary intervention with stent implantation is an integral aspect of minimally interventional cardiac procedures. The technology and techniques behind stent design and implantation have evolved rapidly over several decades. However, continued discourse remains around optimal peri- and post-interventional management with dual antiplatelet therapy to minimise both major cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events and iatrogenic bleeding risk. Standard guidelines around dual antiplatelet therapy historically recommended long-term dual antiplatelet therapy for 12 months (with consideration for >12 months in certain patients); however, emerging data and generational improvements in the safety of drug-eluting stents have ushered in a new era of short-term therapy to reduce the incidence of major bleeding events. This case review will provide an overview of the current state of guidelines around duration of dual antiplatelet therapy and examine recent updates and continued gaps in existing research.

Balancing Benefits and Risks of Oral Antiplatelet Strategies in patients With Coronary Artery Diseases: An Evolving Issue

Identifying the most appropriate antiplatelet therapy for each patient to prevent ischemic events while minimizing the risk of bleeding is an integral part of the short- and long-term management of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). This review aims to summarize the available evidence on the contemporary use of P2Y12 inhibitors in CAD patients, focusing on strategies aimed at providing adequate ischemic protection while preventing bleeding risk through dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) modulation. Randomized trials and observational studies have been reviewed to determine the most appropriate antiplatelet treatment for CAD patients with different risk profiles. Both ischemic and bleeding events have a significant prognostic impact and should be carefully considered in clinical decision-making. Current guidelines recommend the use of third-generation PY2Y12 inhibitors (prasugrel or ticagrelor) over clopidogrel, as a part of DAPT, in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Newer P2Y12 inhibitors have a more rapid onset of action and less interindividual variability in platelet inhibition than clopidogrel but are associated with an increased risk of bleeding that may limit their benefit. Importantly, the anti-ischemic benefit of ticagrelor and prasugrel is mainly observed in the first weeks after ACS, whereas clopidogrel seems to provide the best balance between ischemic protection and bleeding as long-term maintenance therapy. These concepts support DAPT modulation after the acute phase, by de-escalating from full-dose to low-dose newer P2Y12 inhibitors, by switching to clopidogrel, or by early withdrawing aspirin to maximize both the efficacy and safety of antiplatelet therapy in patients with CAD.

Optimal P2Y12 inhibitor durations in older men and older women following an acute myocardial infarction: A nationwide cohort study using Medicare data

Study objective

Identify optimal P2Y12 inhibitor durations balancing ischemic-benefit and bleeding-risk outcomes after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in older men and women.

Design

Observational retrospective cohort with 2 years of follow-up, using clone-censor-weight marginal structural models to emulate randomization.

Setting

20 % sample of US Medicare administrative claims data.

Participants

P2Y12 inhibitor new users ≥66 years old following 2008-2013 AMI hospitalization.

Exposures

12- to 24-month P2Y12 inhibitor durations in 1-month intervals.

Main outcome measures

Effectiveness outcome (composite of all-cause mortality, recurrent AMI, ischemic stroke), safety outcome (hospitalized bleed), and negative control outcome (heart failure hospitalization).

Results

Of 28,488 P2Y12 inhibitor new users, 51 % were female, 50 % were > 75 years old, 88 % were White/non-Hispanic, and 93 % initiated clopidogrel. Negative control outcome results for 16- through 24-month durations appeared most likely to meet assumptions of no unmeasured confounding. Compared to men taking 24-month therapy, men taking 16-month therapy had higher 2-year risks of the composite effectiveness outcome (relative risk [RR] = 1.08; 95 % confidence interval [95%CI]:1.00-1.15) with similar bleeding risks (RR = 0.98; 95%CI:0.85-1.13). Compared to women taking 24-month therapy, women taking 16-month therapy had similar 2-year risks of the composite effectiveness outcome (RR = 0.98; 95%CI:0.92-1.04) and lower bleeding risks (RR = 0.88; 95%CI:0.80-0.96).

Conclusions

Older men taking 24-month P2Y12 inhibitor therapy had the lowest composite effectiveness outcome risk with no increased bleeding risk compared to shorter durations. Women taking 16-month versus 24-month P2Y12 inhibitor therapy had similar composite effectiveness outcome risks but a substantially lower hospitalized bleeding risk, suggesting durations beyond 15-17 months lacked benefit while increasing bleeding risk.

Personalized Approaches to Antiplatelet Treatment for Cardiovascular Diseases: An Umbrella Review

Antiplatelet therapy is the cornerstone of antithrombotic prevention in patients with established atherosclerosis, since it has been proven to reduce coronary, cerebrovascular, and peripheral thrombotic events. However, the protective effect of antiplatelet agents is counterbalanced by an increase of bleeding events that impacts on patients' mortality and morbidity. Over the last years, great efforts have been made toward personalized antithrombotic strategies according to the individual bleeding and ischemic risk profile, aiming to maximizing the net clinical benefit. The development of risk scores, consensus definitions, and the new promising artificial intelligence tools, as well as the assessment of platelet responsiveness using platelet function and genetic testing, are now part of an integrated approach to tailored antithrombotic management. Moreover, novel strategies are available including dual antiplatelet therapy intensity and length modulation in patients undergoing myocardial revascularization, the use of P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy for long-term secondary prevention, the implementation of parenteral antiplatelet agents in high-ischemic risk clinical settings, and combination of antiplatelet agents with low-dose factor Xa inhibitors (dual pathway inhibition) in patients suffering from polyvascular disease. This review summarizes the currently available evidence and provides an overview of the principal risk-stratification tools and antiplatelet strategies to inform treatment decisions in patients with cardiovascular disease.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

A novel de-escalation antiplatelet therapy for patients with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

To investigate the effect of different DAPTs in patients with ACS undergoing PCI, and to identify the most efficient DAPT to reduce the risk of ischemia and bleeding after PCI. Between March 2017 and December 2021, 1598 patients with ACS who underwent PCI were included in the study. The DAPT protocol included the clopidogrel group (aspirin 100 mg + clopidogrel 75 mg), ticagrelor group (aspirin 100 mg + ticagrelor 90 mg), de-escalation Group 1 (reduced dose of ticagrelor [from 90 mg to 60 mg]) after 3 months of oral DAPT [aspirin 100 mg + ticagrelor 90 mg]), and de-escalation Group 2 (switched from ticagrelor to clopidogrel after 3 months of oral DAPT [aspirin 100 mg + ticagrelor 90 mg]). All patients received a 12-month follow-up. The primary endpoint was net adverse clinical events (NACEs) that included the composite endpoints of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, ischemia-driven revascularization, stroke, and bleeding events. There were 2 secondary endpoints, major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) and bleeding. No statistically significant difference was found in the incidence of NACEs between the 4 groups at the average 12-month follow-up (15.7% vs 19.2% vs 16.7% vs 20.4%). Cox regression analysis revealed that DAPT ticagrelor group regimen (hazard ratio [HR] 0.547; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.334-0.896; P  = .017) were associated with a lower risk of MACCEs. Age (HR 1.024; 95% CI: 1.003-1.046; P  = .022). DAPT de-escalation Group 2 regimen (HR 1.665; 95% CI: 1.001-2.767; P  = .049) were marginally associated with a higher risk of MACCEs. Ticagrelor group regimen (HR 1.856; 95% CI: 1.376-2.504; P  < .001) was associated with higher risk of bleeding events. Ticagrelor group regimen (HR 1.606; 95% CI: 1.179-2.187; P  = .003) were associated with a higher risk of minor bleeding events. For patients with ACS underwent PCI, there were no significant difference in the incidence of NACEs between 3 and 12 months after PCI between de-escalation and non-de-escalation therapies. Compared with ticagrelor-based 12-month DAPT, there was no significant difference in MACCEs and bleeding events in patients receiving de-escalation treatment (ticagrelor reduction from 90 to 60 mg, 3 months after PCI).

A Contemporary Review of Antiplatelet Therapies in Current Clinical Practice

Antiplatelet therapy plays a crucial role in a number of cardiovascular disorders. We currently have a range of antiplatelet agents in our armamentarium. In this review, we aim to summarise the common antiplatelet agents currently available, and their use in clinic practice. We not only highlight recent trials exploring antiplatelet therapy in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, but also in trials related to transcatheter aortic valve implantation and coronavirus disease 2019. Inevitably, the antithrombotic benefits of these drugs are accompanied by an increase in bleeding complications. Therefore, an individualised approach to weighing each patient's thrombotic risk versus bleeding risk is imperative, in order to improve clinical outcomes.

Challenge in Predicting Persistence to P2Y12 Inhibitors: A Perspective From the ARTEMIS Trial

Background Premature discontinuation of P2Y12 inhibitor therapy has been associated with adverse cardiac events, which might be preventable by improving medication persistence. Current risk models have limited ability to predict patients at risk of P2Y12 inhibitor nonpersistence. Methods and Results ARTEMIS (Affordability and Real-World Antiplatelet Treatment Effectiveness after Myocardial Infarction Study) was a randomized, controlled trial testing the impact of a copayment assistance intervention on P2Y12 inhibitor persistence and outcomes. Among 6212 patients post myocardial infarction with a planned 1-year course of P2Y12 inhibitor therapy, nonpersistence was defined as a gap in P2Y12 inhibitor filled >30 days by pharmacy fill data. We developed a predictive model for 1-year P2Y12 inhibitor nonpersistence among patients randomized to usual care. P2Y12 inhibitor nonpersistence rates were 23.8% (95% CI, 22.7%-24.8%) at 30 days and 47.9% (46.6%-49.1%) at 1 year; the majority of these patients had in-hospital percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients who received the copayment assistance intervention had nonpersistence rates of 22.0% (20.7%-23.3%) at 30 days and 45.3% (43.8%-46.9%) at 1 year. A 53-variable multivariable model predicting 1-year persistence had a C-index of 0.63 (optimism-corrected C-index 0.58). Model discrimination did not improve with inclusion of patient-reported perceptions about disease, medication-taking beliefs, and prior medication-filling behavior in addition to demographic and medical history data (C-index 0.62). Conclusions Despite addition of patient-reported variables, models predicting persistence with P2Y12 inhibitor therapy performed poorly, thereby suggesting the need for continued patient and clinician education on the importance of P2Y12 inhibitor therapy after acute myocardial infarction. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02406677.

What Is the Optimal Duration of Antiplatelet Therapy for Patients with Coronary Heart Disease?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Optimal duration of antiplatelet therapy continues to attract extensive debates and has been progressively adjusted in the setting of advancements in stent design and assessment of patient clinical characteristics. Given the ever-changing landscape of antiplatelet therapy and the multitude of clinical trials that have examined this duration, there are varying scenarios for optimal duration based on patient presentation and risk profile. This review highlights the current concepts and recommendations regarding duration of antiplatelet therapy in coronary heart disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

In particular, we review the current data on the use of dual antiplatelet therapy in the different clinical scenarios. Relatively longer dual antiplatelet therapy is perhaps limited to patients with higher risk for cardiovascular events and/or high-risk lesions and shorter durations of dual antiplatelet therapy have been shown to reduce bleeding complications at the same time as stabilization of ischemic endpoints. More recent trials have demonstrated the safety of shorter durations of dual antiplatelet therapy in appropriate patients with coronary heart disease.

De-escalation of antiplatelet therapy in patients with coronary artery disease: Time to change our strategy?

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is the gold standard after acute coronary syndromes (ACS) or chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Because local and systemic ischemic complications can occur particularly in the early phase (i.e. 1-3 months) after ACS or PCI, the synergistic platelet inhibition of aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor is of the utmost importance in this early phase. Moreover, the use of the more potent P2Y12 inhibitors prasugrel and ticagrelor have shown to further reduce the incidence of ischemic events compared to clopidogrel after an ACS. On the other hand, prolonged and potent antiplatelet therapy are inevitably associated with increased bleeding, which unlike thrombotic risk, tends to be stable over time and may outweigh the benefit of reducing ischemic events in these patients. The duration and composition of antiplatelet therapy remains a topic of debate in cardiology due to competing ischemic and bleeding risks, with guidelines and recommendations considerably evolving in the past years. An emerging strategy, called "de-escalation", consisting in the administration of a less intense antithrombotic therapy after a short course of standard DAPT, has shown to reduce bleeding without any trade-off in ischemic events. De-escalation may be achieved with different antithrombotic strategies and can be either unguided or guided by platelet function or genetic testing. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence and provide practical recommendations on the use of different de-escalation strategies in patients with ACS and CCS.

Antiplatelet Therapy in Coronary Artery Disease: Now and Then

Cardiovascular disease, particularly coronary artery disease (CAD), remains the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in industrialized countries. Platelet activation and aggregation at the site of endothelial injury play a key role in the processes ultimately resulting in thrombus formation with vessel occlusion and subsequent end-organ damage. Consequently, antiplatelet therapy has become a mainstay in the pharmacological treatment of CAD. Several drug classes have been developed over the last decades and a broad armamentarium of antiplatelet agents is currently available. This review portrays the evolution of antiplatelet therapy, and provides an overview on previous and current antiplatelet drugs and strategies.

Novel Aspects Targeting Platelets in Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease—A Translational Perspective

Platelets are important cellular targets in cardiovascular disease. Based on insights from basic science, translational approaches and clinical studies, a distinguished anti-platelet drug treatment regimen for cardiovascular patients could be established. Furthermore, platelets are increasingly considered as cells mediating effects “beyond thrombosis”, including vascular inflammation, tissue remodeling and healing of vascular and tissue lesions. This review has its focus on the functions and interactions of platelets with potential translational and clinical relevance. The role of platelets for the development of atherosclerosis and therapeutic modalities for primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic disease are addressed. Furthermore, novel therapeutic options for inhibiting platelet function and the use of platelets in regenerative medicine are considered.

Advances in the available pharmacotherapy for the management of acute coronary syndromes in patients presenting without persistent ST-segment elevation

INTRODUCTION

Non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE-ACS), including non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and unstable angina, represent a leading cause of mortality worldwide, with important socio-economic consequences. NSTEMI accounts for the majority of acute coronary syndromes and usually develops on the background of a nonocclusive thrombus. We searched for relevant literature in the field in PubMed and clinicaltrials.gov as of July 2022.

AREAS COVERED

A number of pharmacotherapies are currently available for treatment and secondary prevention, mainly including antithrombotic, lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory drugs. Pretreatment with aspirin, anticoagulant and statin therapy is of key importance in the preprocedural phase, while pretreating with an oral P2Y12 inhibitor is not routinely indicated in patients undergoing early invasive management. For patients undergoing percutaneous coronary revascularization, pharmacotherapy essentially consists of antithrombotic drugs, which should be carefully selected. Finally, antithrombotic, lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory drugs are important components of long-term secondary prevention after a NSTE-ACS.

EXPERT OPINION

This article reviews the evidence supporting recommendation on pharmacotherapy in patients presenting with a NSTE-ACS. Several randomized clinical trials are still ongoing and are expected to further inform scientific knowledge and clinical practice, with the final aim to improve the treatment of NSTE-ACS patients.

Short-term dual antiplatelet therapy for 1-3 months after percutaneous coronary intervention using drug eluting stents: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

BACKGROUND

The optimal dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration and regimen in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using current generation drug eluting stents (DES) is still unclear.

AIMS

To compare the safety and efficacy of short-term DAPT (S-DAPT) with longer duration DAPT (l-DAPT) after contemporary PCI.

METHODS

We searched for studies comparing S-DAPT (≤3 months) followed by single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) with aspirin or a P2Y12 inhibitor against L-DAPT (6-12 months) after PCI with current generation DES. Primary end-points of interest were major bleeding and stent thrombosis (ST) at 1 year. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to calculate odds ratios with 95% CIs.

RESULTS

Eleven RCTs (n = 48,946) were included in the primary analysis. Major bleeding was significantly lower with S-DAPT (n = 24,424) (odd ratio [OR 0.65; 95% confidence interval, CI 0.52-0.80]) compared with L-DAPT (n = 24,486). There were no differences in ST between the two groups [OR 1.26; 95% CI 0.97-1.63]. There were no significant differences in risks of all-cause death, cardiovascular death or myocardial infarction between S-DAPT and L-DAPT groups. In a subgroup analysis, there was borderline significantly higher ST with 1 month S-DAPT [1.39; 1.0-1.92], but not with 3 months S-DAPT [1.07; 0.70-1.64], when compared to L-DAPT. Finally, there were no significant treatment interactions observed when trials using SAPT with aspirin were compared with those using P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Among patients undergoing current generation DES implantation, S-DAPT for 1-3 months reduces major bleeding without an increase in ischemic events compared with L-DAPT. Three months S-DAPT might provide a better risk-benefit profile based on current analysis. Further study is needed to define the SAPT of choice after 1-3 months DAPT.

Long-Term Outcomes and Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Coronary Intervention With Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stents: The Veterans Affairs Extended DAPT Study

Background Recent guidelines on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) balance the subsequent risks of major bleeding with ischemic events. Although generally favoring shorter DAPT duration with second-generation drug-eluting stents, the effects on long-term outcomes in the wider population are uncertain. Methods and Results We tracked all patients having PCI with second-generation drug-eluting stents in the Veterans Affairs Healthcare System between 2006 and 2016 for death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and major bleeding up to 13 years. We compared these outcomes with 4 DAPT durations of 1 to 5, 6 to 9, 10 to 12, and 13 to 18 months after the index PCI using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs from Cox proportional hazards models adjusted by inverse probability weighting. A total of 40 882 subjects with PCI were followed up for a median of 4.3 (25%-75%: 2.4-6.5) years. DAPT discontinuation was rare early after PCI (5.8% at 1-5 months and 6.3% at 6-9 months) but increased (19% and 44%) >9 months. The risk of cardiovascular and noncardiovascular death was higher (HR, 2.03-3.41) with DAPT discontinuation <9 months, likely reflecting premature cessation from factors related to early death. DAPT discontinuation after 9 months following PCI was associated with lower risks of death (HR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.88-0.99]), cardiac death (HR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.70-0.90]), myocardial infarction (HR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.69-0.82]), and major bleeding (HR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.74-0.91]). Results were similar with an index PCI for an acute coronary syndrome. Conclusions Stopping DAPT after 9 months is associated with lower long-term risks of adverse ischemic and bleeding events and supports recent guidelines of shorter duration DAPT after PCI with second-generation drug-eluting stents.

Is the duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) excessive in post-angioplasty in chronic coronary syndrome? Data from the France-PCI registry (2014-2019)

Background

while the duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) following coronary angioplasty for chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) recommended by the European Society of Cardiology has decreased over the last decade, little is known about the adherence to those guidelines in clinical practice in France.

Aim

To analyze the real duration of DAPT post coronary angioplasty in CCS, as well as the factors affecting this duration.

Methods

Between 2014 and 2019, 8.836 percutaneous coronary interventions for CCS from the France-PCI registry were evaluated, with 1 year follow up, after exclusion of patients receiving oral anticoagulants, procedures performed within one year of an acute coronary syndrome, and repeat angioplasty.

Results

Post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) DAPT duration was > 12 months for 53.1% of patients treated for CCS; 30.5% had a DAPT between 7 and 12 months, and 16.4% a DAPT ≤ 6 months. Patients with L-DAPT (>12 months) were at higher ischemic risk [25.0% of DAPT score ≥2 vs. 18.8% DAPT score ≥2 in S&I-DAPT group (≤12 months)]. The most commonly used P2Y12 inhibitor was clopidogrel (82.2%). The prescription of ticagrelor increased over the period.

Conclusions

post-PCI DAPT duration in CCS was higher than international recommendations in the France PCI registry between 2014 and 2019. More than half of the angioplasty performed for CCS are followed by a DAPT > 12 months. Ischemic risk assessment influences the duration of DAPT. This risk is probably overestimated nowadays, leading to a prolongation of DAPT beyond the recommended durations, thus increasing the bleeding risk.

Association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and bleeding in non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome: A multicentre cohort of Chinese population.. [DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2241865/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Background The association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and bleeding risk in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the association between bleeding events and different hs-CRP levels in patients with non-ST elevation ACS (NSTE-ACS). Methods This study retrospectively included 2583 adults with NSTE-ACS between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2014, at 5 medical centres in China. The primary outcome was major bleeding, defined by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium definition (grades 3–5). Results Fifty-three (2.1%) patients experienced major bleeding in the hospital. Patients with hs-CRP levels greater than 8.20 mg/L had the highest incidence of in-hospital major bleeding (25 (3.9%), P < 0.001) compared with the other groups. Multivariable analysis indicated that hs-CRP was an independent factor associated with in-hospital major bleeding (continuous: adjusted OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.01–1.02, P < 0.001; quartiles: adjusted OR for quartile 4 (referring to quartile 1) = 3.71, 95% CI: 1.35 ~ 10.23, P = 0.011), which was further confirmed by subgroup analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves. The restricted cubic spline analysis demonstrated an S-shaped association between hs-CRP and major bleeding. During the 5-year follow-up, there was a significantly high risk of bleeding in patients with higher hs-CRP levels. Conclusion Higher hs-CRP level at admission in NSTE-ACS patients is associated with high risk of in-hospital major bleeding. An S-shaped association was found between hs-CRP and bleeding events. Further studies are warranted to optimize antithrombotic drug therapy in high-bleeding risk patients during follow-up.

Gender-differences in antithrombotic therapy across the spectrum of ischemic heart disease: Time to tackle the Yentl syndrome?

The incidence and clinical presentation of ischemic heart disease (IHD), as well as thrombotic and bleeding risks, appear to differ between genders. Compared with men, women feature an increased thrombotic risk, probably related to an increased platelet reactivity, higher level of coagulation factors, and sex-associated unique cardiovascular risk factors, such as pregnancy-related (i.e., pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes), gynecological disorders (i.e., polycystic ovary syndrome, early menopause) and autoimmune or systemic inflammatory diseases. At the same time, women are also at increased risk of bleeding, due to inappropriate dosing of antithrombotic agents, smaller blood vessels, lower body weight and comorbidities, such as diabetes and chronic kidney disease. Pharmacological strategies focused on the personalization of antithrombotic treatment may, therefore, be particularly appealing in women in light of their higher bleeding and ischemic risks. Paradoxically, although women represent a large proportion of cardiovascular patients in our practice, adequate high-quality clinical trial data on women remain scarce and inadequate to guide decision-making processes. As a result, IHD in women tends to be understudied, underdiagnosed and undertreated, a phenomenon known as a "Yentl syndrome." It is, therefore, compelling for the scientific community to embark on dedicated clinical trials to address underrepresentation of women and to acquire evidence-based knowledge in the personalization of antithrombotic therapy in women.

Efficacy and safety of dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary drug-eluting stenting: A network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dual antiplatelet regimens after coronary drug-eluting stenting by network meta-analysis (NMA).

METHODS

PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science databases were electronically searched to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the comparison of different dual antiplatelet regimens after coronary drug-eluting stenting from inception to September 1st, 2021. Two reviewers independently screened literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk bias of included studies. Stata 16.0 software was used for NMA.

RESULTS

A total of 27 RCTs involving 79,880 patients were included. The results of NMA: in terms of myocardial infarction (MI), other 3 interventions were higher than the long-term dual antiplatelet therapy (L-DAPT) (the standard dual antiplatelet therapy [Std-DAPT] [odds ratio [OR] = 1.82, 95%confidence interval [CI]: 1.49-2.21), the aspirin monotherapy after short-term dual antiplatelet therapy (S-DAPT + As) (OR = 2.06, 95%CI: 1.57-2.70), the P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy after short-term dual antiplatelet therapy (S-DAPT + P2Y12) (OR = 1.71, 95%CI: 1.29-2.28)]. In terms of stent thrombosis, other 3 interventions were higher than L-DAPT [Std-DAPT (OR = 2.18, 95%CI: 1.45-3.28), S-DAPT + As (OR = 2.32, 95%CI: 1.52-3.54), S-DAPT + P2Y12 (OR = 2.31, 95%CI: 1.22-4.36)]. There was no statistically significant difference among the 4 interventions in prevention of stroke and all-cause mortality (P > .05). In terms of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular adverse events, other 3 interventions were higher than L-DAPT (Std-DAPT [OR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.12-1.45], S-DAPT + As [OR = 1.27, 95%CI: 1.09-1.48], S-DAPT + P2Y12 [OR = 1.24, 95%CI: 1.01-1.52]). In terms of safety, bleeding rate of other 3 interventions were lower than L-DAPT (Std-DAPT [OR = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.52-0.85], S-DAPT + As [OR = 0.51, 95%CI: 0.39-0.66], S-DAPT + P2Y12 [OR = 0.36, 95%CI: 0.26-0.49]). Two interventions were lower than L-DAPT (S-DAPT + As [OR = 0.77, 95%CI: 0.65-0.90], S-DAPT + P2Y12 [OR = 0.54, 95%CI: 0.44-0.66]). S-DAPT + As was higher than L-DAPT (OR = 1.42, 95%CI: 1.10-1.83).

CONCLUSIONS

S-DAPT + P2Y12 has the lowest bleeding risk, while L-DAPT has the highest bleeding risk. In the outcome of MI, stent thrombosis, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular adverse events, L-DAPT has the best efficacy. In the outcome of stroke and all-cause mortality, the 4 interventions were equally effective.

Case-fatality rate of major bleeding events in patients on dual antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Assessment of the case-fatality rate (CFR) of major bleeding on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) may improve balancing risks and benefits of different durations of DAPT following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Objectives

To determine the CFR of major bleeding in patients on DAPT after PCI and to compare rates among different durations of DAPT.

Methods

Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL were searched from inception to August 2021 for randomized trials that reported fatal bleeding among patients who were randomized to ≥1 month of DAPT following PCI. Summary estimates for CFRs of major bleeding were calculated using the random-effects inverse-variance method. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I 2 statistic.

Results

Of 2777 citations obtained by the search, 15 (48%) of 31 potentially eligible studies were excluded because fatal bleeding was not reported, leaving 16 studies that were included in the analysis. Overall, there were 823 major bleeding events including 91 fatal events in 48,884 patients who were assigned to receive DAPT during study follow-up. The CFR of major bleeding was 10.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.1-16.2; I 2 = 50%) in the entire study population, and 13.8% (95% CI, 6.5-27.1; I 2 = 28%), 11.2% (95% CI, 6.7-18.0; I 2 = 0%), and 5.8% (95% CI, 3.0-11.1; I 2 = 0%) in those on short-term (≤6 months; n = 16,553), standard-term (12 months; n = 19,453), and long-term DAPT (>12 months; n = 10,238), respectively.

Conclusion

Fatal bleeding is not reported in many studies evaluating DAPT after PCI. The CFR of major bleeding on DAPT is substantial and may be higher in the first 12 months of DAPT than during long-term DAPT.

Extended, standard, or De-escalation antiplatelet therapy for patients with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention? A trial-sequential, bivariate, influential, and network meta-analysis

AIMS

The relative safety and efficacy of de-escalation, extended duration (ED) (>12-months), and standard dual antiplatelet therapy for 12-months (DAPT-12) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains controversial.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Online databases were queried to identify relevant randomized control trials (RCTs). ED-DAPT, high-potency (HP) DAPT, shorter duration (SD) DAPT, and low-dose (LD) DAPT were compared with DAPT-12. A trial sequential, bivariate, influential, and frequentist network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed to determine the pooled estimates. A total of 30 RCTs comprising 81 208 (40 839 experimental, 40 369 control arm) patients with CAD were included in the quantitative analysis. On NMA, compared with DAPT-12, all types of de-escalation, HP-DAPT-12, and ED-DAPT strategies had a statistically non-significant difference in the incidence of MACE at a median follow-up of 1-year. Similarly, there was no significant difference in the incidence of stroke, stent thrombosis, target lesion revascularization (TLR), target vessel revascularization (TVR), and all-cause mortality between DAPT-12 and all other strategies. The network estimates showed a significantly lower incidence of major bleeding with DAPT for 3-months followed by P2Y12-inhibitor monotherapy (RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.45-0.84), while a higher risk of bleeding with HP-DAPT for 12 months (RR 1.55, 95% CI 1.16-2.06). The net clinical benefit and rankograms also favoured DAPT-3 (P2Y12) and discouraged the use of HP-DAPT-12 and ED-DAPT. A subgroup analysis of 19 RCTs restricted to patients who presented with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) mirrored the findings of pooled analysis. A sensitivity analysis revealed no influence of any individual study or individual strategy on net ischemic estimates. The trial sequential analysis (TSA) illustrated a consistently non-significant difference at the interim analysis of trials, reaching the futility area for MACE, while the cumulative Z-values line surpassed the monitoring boundary as well as the required information size for major bleeding favouring de-escalation strategy.

CONCLUSION

DAPT for three months followed by ticagrelor-only and use of aspirin + clopidogrel after a short period of high potency DAPT appears to be a safe strategy for treating post-PCI patients. However, given the methodological limitations and inclusion of a small number of trials in novel de-escalation strategies, these findings need validation by future large scale RCTs.

Dual antiplatelet therapy duration after percutaneous coronary intervention using drug eluting stents in high bleeding risk patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Optimal dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) duration in patients at high bleeding risk (HBR) is not fully defined. We aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of short-term DAPT (S-DAPT) with longer duration DAPT (L-DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug eluting stents (DES) in patients at HBR.

METHODS

We searched for studies comparing S-DAPT (≤3 months) followed by aspirin or P2Y 12 inhibitor monotherapy against L-DAPT (6-12 months) after PCI in HBR patients. Primary end points of interest were major bleeding and myocardial infarction (MI). Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to calculate odds ratios with 95% CIs.

RESULTS

Six randomized trials and 3 propensity-matched studies (n = 16,848) were included in the primary analysis. Compared with L-DAPT (n = 8,422), major bleeding was lower with S-DAPT (n = 8,426) [OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.51-0.89] whereas MI did not differ significantly between the 2 groups [1.16; 0.94-1.44]. There were no significant differences in risks of death, stroke or stent thrombosis (ST) between S-DAPT and L-DAPT groups. These findings were consistent when propensity-matched studies were analysed separately. Finally, there was a numerically higher, albeit statistically non-significant, ST in the S-DAPT arm of patients without an indication for OAC [1.98; 0.86-4.58].

CONCLUSIONS

Among HBR patients undergoing current generation DES implantation, S-DAPT reduces bleeding without an increased risk of death or MI compared with L-DAPT. More research is needed to (1) evaluate risks of late ST after 1 to 3 months DAPT among patients with high ischemic and bleeding risks, (2) defining the SAPT of choice after 1 to 3 months DAPT.

The Optimal Strategy of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Drug-Eluting Stent

Objective: To test the optimal strategy of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after implantation of drug-eluting stents (DESs) according to specific DAPT time and subsequent monotherapy. Methods: We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medline, Embase, and Web of Science to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Six DAPT strategies were compared: 1-month DAPT followed by P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy, 3-month DAPT followed by P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy, 3-month DAPT followed by aspirin monotherapy, 6-month DAPT followed by aspirin monotherapy, 12-month DAPT, and >12-month DAPT. Pooled odd ratios (ORs) with 95% credible intervals (CrIs) were calculated to summarize the effect of each strategy tested. Results: We identified 24 RCTs containing 81,405 patients. In comparison with 12-month DAPT, 3-month DAPT followed by P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy reduced net clinical events (OR: 0.72; CrI: 0.55−0.94). Major bleeding (OR: 0.57; CrI: 0.34−1.00) was marginally decreased without impact on ischemic events (OR: 0.93; CrI: 0.68−1.29). Moreover, the benefits of 3-month DAPT (P2Y12 inhibitor) were consistent for male patients with acute coronary disease, young age, complex lesion, single-vessel disease, low body mass index, and without diabetes. Although >12-month DAPT was associated with a lower risk of myocardial infarction (OR: 0.67; CrI: 0.51−0.93), the risk of major bleeding (OR: 1.70; CrI: 1.10−2.70) was increased. Conclusion: Among patients treated with DESs, 3-month DAPT followed by P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy may be the optimal antiplatelet strategy, while DAPT beyond 1 year reduces myocardial infarction at the expense of increased major bleeding.

Abbreviated versus Standard Duration of DAPT after PCI: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stent (DES) is typically continued for 6-12 months depending on clinical presentation. Recent studies have evaluated the safety of shorter durations of DAPT across stable and unstable coronary syndrome but are limited by smaller patient pools and varying indications.

METHODS

The present study performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis comparing abbreviated (1-3 months) with standard (6-12 months) duration of DAPT. Both conventional and frequentist network meta-analyses with a random-effects model were conducted.

RESULTS

Seventeen randomized controlled trials, nine of which included 1-3 months of DAPT, were selected. The risks of any bleeding (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.54-0.85), major bleeding (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.50-0.86), and net adverse clinical events (NACE) (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.76-0.99) were lower with abbreviated (1-3 months) than standard-term (6-12 months) DAPT. No significant differences in the risk of myocardial infarction (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.87-1.18), definite or probable stent thrombosis (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.83-1.50), and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.86-1.06) were observed. Network meta-analysis demonstrated lower risk of any bleeding, major bleeding, and NACE with shorter durations of DAPT compared with 12 months. Risks of definite or probable stent thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and MACE were not significantly different.

CONCLUSION

The results support the growing body of evidence that abbreviated duration (1-3 months) of DAPT may be considered to reduce the risk of bleeding without any differences in myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, or MACE.

P2Y12 Antagonists in Cardiovascular Disease—Finding the Best Balance Between Preventing Ischemic Events and Causing Bleeding

Dual antiplatelet therapy comprising of aspirin and oral P2Y₁₂ receptor antagonists are an established cornerstone of therapy in acute coronary syndromes and percutaneous coronary intervention. As a result, the platelet P2Y₁₂ receptor remains a key therapeutic target in cardiovascular medicine since pharmacological antagonists were first developed in the 1990’s. With a greater understanding of platelet biology and the role played by the P2Y₁₂ receptor in the amplification of platelet activation and thrombus formation, there has been progressive refinement in the development of P2Y₁₂ receptor antagonists with greater potency and consistency of antiplatelet effect. However, challenges remain in the utilization of these agents particularly in balancing the need for greater protection from ischemic events whilst minimizing the bleeding risk and present a real opportunity for the institution of individualized medicine. Future drug developments will provide clinicians with greater avenues to achieve this.

2022 Prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases in Of the Russian Federation. National guidelines

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Antiplatelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention

Antiplatelet therapy is key to reducing local thrombotic complications and systemic ischaemic events among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), but it is inevitably associated with increased bleeding. The continuous refinement in stent technologies, together with the high incidence of ischaemic recurrences after PCI and the understanding of prognostic implications associated with bleeding, have led to a substantial evolution in antiplatelet treatment regimens over the past decades. Numerous investigations have been conducted to better stratify patients undergoing PCI according to their ischaemic and bleeding risks and to implement antithrombotic regimens accordingly. Evidence from these investigations have resulted in a number of antithrombotic treatment options as recommended by recent guidelines. In this State-of-the-Art review we provide the rationale, summarise the evidence, and discuss current and future directions of antiplatelet treatment regimens after PCI.