Triple antithrombotic therapy in cardiac patients: More questions than answers

Abstract

Many cardiac patients require combined antithrombotic therapy consisting of an anticoagulant and inhibition of platelet function. The most frequent indications are atrial fibrillation (AF) in combination with drug-eluting stent implantation and/or the presence of an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Currently, the optimal combination of anticoagulants and anti-platelet therapy is unknown, but it is well established that the combination of regular doses and regimens as prescribed in AF or after ACS results in increased bleeding rates. In this review, we discuss the current literature and describe approaches to reduce the risk of bleeding hoping not to increase the rate of ischaemic events. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2013.