Does Duration of DAPT Affect Bleeding-Related Mortality?

In an analysis of multiple trials, longer dual antiplatelet therapy increased bleeding and bleeding-related death.

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation reduces ischemic events but is associated with increased bleeding risk, causing uncertainty about the proper duration for this therapy. In some studies, longer DAPT therapy has been associated with increased noncardiac mortality, and bleeding has been associated with mortality. In the current study, investigators examined the associations of DAPT duration, bleeding, and mortality after DES implantation in 12 randomized trials that compared shorter and longer durations of DAPT (34,880 patients). In these trials, short-duration DAPT ranged from 3 to 12 months, and long-duration DAPT ranged from 12 to 48 months. Mortality was counted as bleeding-related if death occur…

Reviewing Author

Howard C. Herrmann, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardAffluent Medical; Artedrone; Caranx; Johnson & Johnson; Medtronic; Prolifagen; Wells Fargo

EquityMicrointerventional Devices, Inc.

RoyaltiesUniversity of Pennsylvania

Grant/Research SupportAbbott Vascular; Edwards Lifesciences; Johnson & Johnson; Medtronic

Editorial BoardsCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions; Journal of the American College of Cardiology; Circulation: Cardiovascular Interventions; JACC Cardiovascular Interventions; JACC Case Reports; JSCAI

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesHeart Valve Collaboratory (Scientific Committee Member, Chair of the Publications Committee)