Long-term single antiplatelet therapy for patients with acute coronary syndrome at high-risk for ischemia and bleeding: a precision cohort study - Report - MDSpire

Long-term single antiplatelet therapy for patients with acute coronary syndrome at high-risk for ischemia and bleeding: a precision cohort study

  • By

  • Ma Wanda

  • Lei Mengjie

  • Wang Jingyao

  • Sun Xue

  • Wang Xiao

  • Li Cairong

  • Li Yachao

  • Zhao Zhigang

  • Xue Zengming

  • May 1, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Long-term Outcomes of SAPT in High-Risk ACS Patients

Overview

This study evaluates the outcomes of single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) with aspirin versus clopidogrel in high-risk acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Clopidogrel was associated with lower rates of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and target vessel revascularization (TVR) compared to aspirin, without increasing bleeding risks.

Background

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) encompasses serious cardiovascular conditions that require effective antiplatelet therapy to prevent thrombotic events. Current guidelines recommend transitioning patients from dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) to SAPT after 12 months, but the optimal choice between aspirin and clopidogrel remains uncertain, particularly for high-risk patients. Understanding the comparative effectiveness of these therapies is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

OutcomeAspirin (n=435)Clopidogrel (n=207)P-value
NACESimilarSimilar-
MACCE9.2%4.3%0.031
TVR6.4%1.4%0.006

Key Findings

  • The incidence of NACE was similar between aspirin and clopidogrel cohorts.
  • Clopidogrel significantly reduced MACCE compared to aspirin (4.3% vs. 9.2%, P = 0.031).
  • Clopidogrel also showed a lower rate of TVR compared to aspirin (1.4% vs. 6.4%, P = 0.006).
  • Cox regression analysis indicated that MACCE and TVR rates were significantly lower in the clopidogrel cohort.
  • No significant increase in bleeding complications was observed with clopidogrel compared to aspirin.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider clopidogrel as a preferred option for long-term SAPT in high-risk ACS patients transitioning from DAPT, as it is associated with better cardiovascular outcomes without increasing bleeding risks. This finding supports a more individualized approach to antiplatelet therapy in this patient population.

Conclusion

The study highlights the potential benefits of clopidogrel over aspirin for long-term SAPT in high-risk ACS patients, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment strategies to optimize patient outcomes.

References

  1. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2023 -- Impact of Aspirin Therapy on Platelet Activity and Restenosis Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Findings from the ISAR-ASPI Registry
  2. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2025 -- Preoperative Dual Antiplatelet Therapy with Aspirin and Ticagrelor in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients Undergoing Emergency Aortocoronary Bypass Surgery
  3. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2026 -- Duration of dual antiplatelet therapy and risk of stent thrombosis in patients undergoing complex PCI: a meta-analysis
  4. Drugs - Real World Outcomes, 2021 -- Evaluation of Oral Antiplatelet Therapy Utilization and Patient Outcomes in Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
  5. ACC, AHA Issue New Acute Coronary Syndromes Guideline - American College of Cardiology, 2025
  6. HOST-EXAM: Clopidogrel vs. Aspirin Monotherapy at 10 Years Post PCI - American College of Cardiology, 2026
  7. New Studies Explore Early Aspirin Withdrawal and Tailored Antiplatelet Strategies Following PCI - American College of Cardiology
  8. ACC, AHA Issue New Acute Coronary Syndromes Guideline - American College of Cardiology
  9. HOST-EXAM: Clopidogrel vs. Aspirin Monotherapy at 10 Years Post PCI - American College of Cardiology

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