How long is dual antiplatelet therapy usually recommended following drug-eluting stent placement?

The recommendation for dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) following drug-eluting stent (DES) placement is typically for a duration of 6 to 12 months. This duration strikes a balance between preventing stent thrombosis, which is a serious complication that can occur if the platelets aggregate and form a clot on the stented area, and minimizing the risks associated with prolonged antiplatelet therapy, such as bleeding.

The 6 to 12 months timeframe is supported by clinical trials and guidelines, which have established that adhering to this period significantly reduces the risk of stent thrombosis without unnecessarily prolonging the risk of bleeding complications. This period is particularly important for patients who are considered at higher risk for thrombotic events, ensuring that they receive adequate protection from potential clots while also being mindful of the dangers associated with longer-term antiplatelet use.

Therapy durations outside of this range, such as 1 to 3 months, may not provide sufficient protection against thrombotic events in patients with drug-eluting stents. Similarly, lifetime therapy is not recommended for most patients due to the increased risk of bleeding complications that can arise from prolonged antiplatelet usage. Therefore, 6 to 12 months