Clopidogrel plays pivotal role in stent controversy

A clinical alert issued by the professional society that represents interventional cardiologists is urging doctors not to recommend drug-eluting coronary stents [DES] to patients who are unable to take two antithrombotic agents (clopidogrel and aspirin) for at least three to six months, and preferably for one year. The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) is advising invasive and interventional cardiologists to take practical steps for reducing the risk of late stent thrombosis, a rare, but potentially fatal occurrence.