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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Microfluidics in Assessing Platelet Function
Published on: November 8, 2024
Update on antiplatelet agents, including MATCH, CHARISMA, and ESPRIT
Maryna Skliut1, Dara G Jamieson
1New York - Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, Department of Neurology and Neuroscience, 525 East 68th Street, Suite F-610, New York, NY 10021, USA.
For secondary stroke prevention, aspirin plus extended-release dipyridamole offers benefits over monotherapy. However, aspirin plus clopidogrel does not show added benefit and increases bleeding risks.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Secondary prevention of ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) relies on risk factor modification.
- Atherothrombotic disease, involving platelet activation and aggregation, underlies most noncardioembolic ischemic strokes.
- Antiplatelet medications are crucial for secondary stroke prevention in arterial disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on antiplatelet medications for secondary stroke prevention.
- To discuss the efficacy and controversies surrounding combination antiplatelet therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical studies and trials on antiplatelet agents.
- Analysis of combination therapies including aspirin with extended-release dipyridamole or clopidogrel.
Main Results:
- Aspirin plus extended-release dipyridamole demonstrated additive benefits compared to monotherapy.
- Aspirin plus clopidogrel did not show superior efficacy in preventing recurrent ischemic stroke over individual agents.
- Combination therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel increased the risk of hemorrhagic side effects.
Conclusions:
- Combination antiplatelet therapy requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
- Aspirin plus extended-release dipyridamole is a viable option for secondary stroke prevention.
- Further research is needed to clarify optimal antiplatelet strategies and address existing controversies.
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