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Aspirin or P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease?
Mattia Galli1,2, Jurrien Ten Berg3,4, Marco Valgimigli5,6
1Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina 04100, Italy.
Insights
For patients with atherosclerotic disease, P2Y12 inhibitors may offer superior efficacy and safety over aspirin for long-term antiplatelet therapy, guiding optimal secondary prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Antiplatelet therapy is crucial for managing atherosclerotic disease.
- Aspirin has been the standard, but P2Y12 inhibitors are emerging as strong alternatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and safety of aspirin versus P2Y12 inhibitors.
- To evaluate single antiplatelet strategies for secondary prevention in atherosclerotic disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of current evidence comparing aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors.
- Analysis of cardiovascular events, safety, and practical considerations.
Main Results:
- Emerging data suggest P2Y12 inhibitors may be preferred over aspirin.
- Considerations include drug response variability, side effects, cost, and implementation.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians should weigh the strengths and limitations of each agent.
- Optimizing single antiplatelet selection is key for long-term secondary prevention.
Abstract:
Antiplatelet therapy is the cornerstone of treatment in patients with established atherosclerotic disease. The use of a single antiplatelet agent is commonly recommended for the long-term management of these patients. Although aspirin has represented the mainstay of antiplatelet therapy for decades, emerging evidence suggests that P2Y₁₂ inhibitors may be more than just a viable alternative to aspirin and may be preferred over aspirin. This review examines the current evidence comparing the efficacy and safety of aspirin vs P2Y12 inhibitors in reducing cardiovascular events in patients with atherosclerotic disease. Special attention is given to the practical challenges and considerations surrounding the use of aspirin vs P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy, including interindividual variability in drug response, side effects, costs, and real-world implementation. By evaluating the strengths and limitations of these treatment options, this article aims to guide clinicians in optimizing the selection of single antiplatelet strategies for long-term secondary prevention in patients with atherosclerotic disease.
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