Using clopidogrel in acute coronary syndromes without ST-segment elevation

ABSTRACTIn a large, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in centers that use a conservative approach to acute coronary syndromes, the antiplatelet drug clopidogrel (Plavix) decreased the rate of the combined end point of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or stroke by 20% in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes without ST-segment elevation. The benefit was at the cost of an increase in bleeding, however. This strategy may need to be tailored in centers that use a more aggressive treatment strategy of early angiography and revascularization.