Clopidogrel and coronary stents: risks and benefits.

Clopidogrel has become increasingly important in the management of patients with coronary stents. Clopidogrel is an oral agent that acts on the adeno-sine diphosphate receptor to irreversibly inhibit platelet aggregation. Along with aspirin, clopidogrel has a significant role in the treatment of atherothrombotic diseases. Recent concerns about late stent thrombosis highlight the need for long-term therapy with clopidogrel in addition to aspirin in these populations. This article reviews the role of clopidogrel in the treatment of atherothrombotic diseases and after coronary intervention, as well as the current approach in the prevention of stent thrombosis. It also discusses experimental and upcoming drugs that may be superior to clopidogrel.