Pharmacodynamic Effects of Dabigatran in Patients on Dual Antiplatelet Therapy

Dual antiplatelet therapy consisting of aspirin and clopidogrel is the cornerstone of treatment for prevention of atherothrombotic events in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Many patients on dual antiplatelet therapy in this setting may be affected by other thromboembolic conditions, in particular atrial fibrillation, therefore having an indication to also receive oral anticoagulation for stroke prevention. Thus, a considerable percentage of patients are under "triple therapy" which consists of aspirin plus clopidogrel plus an oral anticoagulant. The ever raising population with CAD warranting triple therapy and the growing number of patients being treated with dabigatran underscores the importance of understanding the pharmacodynamic effects of this treatment regimen.