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A review of secondary coronary prevention with dipyridamole and aspirin
1University Department of Medicine, General Infirmary, Leeds, UK.
Abstract:
A large number of placebo-controlled trials of antiplatelet drugs have been carried out. A summary of the results of AMIS, CDP, ISIS-2, PARIS I and II and the Antiplatelet Trialists' Collaboration is presented. It is concluded that two fatal events and three non-fatal events will be averted for every 100 patients given a 2-year course of antiplatelet agents, starting promptly after myocardial infarction.
Insights
Antiplatelet drugs significantly reduce cardiovascular events. A 2-year treatment course following myocardial infarction prevents approximately two deaths and three non-fatal events per 100 patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Antiplatelet therapy is a cornerstone in managing cardiovascular disease.
- Numerous placebo-controlled trials have investigated the efficacy of antiplatelet agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the findings of major placebo-controlled trials on antiplatelet drugs.
- To quantify the net clinical benefit of antiplatelet therapy after myocardial infarction.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of data from key clinical trials including AMIS, CDP, ISIS-2, PARIS I and II.
- Synthesis of results from the Antiplatelet Trialists' Collaboration.
Main Results:
- Consistent evidence across multiple trials demonstrates the benefit of antiplatelet agents.
- A 2-year course of antiplatelet therapy initiated promptly after myocardial infarction is associated with significant risk reduction.
Conclusions:
- Antiplatelet therapy provides substantial protection against both fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events.
- For every 100 patients treated for 2 years post-myocardial infarction, approximately two fatal and three non-fatal events are averted.