After undergoing carotid artery endarterectomy, discharge instructions typically include taking aspirin indefinitely and PLAVIX for how long?

After carotid artery endarterectomy, it is standard practice to prescribe dual antiplatelet therapy to help prevent thromboembolic events and reduce the risk of subsequent strokes. Aspirin is usually recommended indefinitely because of its effectiveness in providing long-term stroke prevention.

PLAVIX, or clopidogrel, is typically advised for a specific duration post-surgery to enhance the antiplatelet effect during the critical recovery period when patients are most at risk for complications. The recommended duration for clopidogrel therapy following carotid artery endarterectomy is generally 30 days. This timeframe aligns with the clinical guidelines, which suggest that after the initial recovery, the risk for thrombotic events decreases, allowing for a transition back to aspirin alone.

Thus, the choice of 30 days is based on the evidence supporting the timing of when to discontinue clopidogrel therapy in conjunction with ongoing aspirin treatment to maintain adequate protection against ischemic events while minimizing the risk of bleeding complications associated with prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy.