Dual-antiplatelet treatment beyond 1 year after drug-eluting stent implantation (ARCTIC-Interruption): a randomised trial

The Lancet
Results of this planned extension of a previously published study suggest that dual antiplatelet therapy beyond 1 year post stenting with a drug eluting stent provided no apparent benefit but increased harm (bleeding events).

Platelet function and long-term antiplatelet therapy in women: is there a gender-specificity? A ‘state-of-the-art’ paper

European Heart Journal
This review attempts to bring together current evidence, clinical practices and gaps in the knowledge on gender-specific platelet function and antiplatelet therapy.

Burden of Changes in Pill Appearance for Patients Receiving Generic Cardiovascular Medications After Myocardial Infarction: Cohort and Nested Case–Control Studies

Annals of Internal Medicine
This study found that changes in the appearance of generic medicines among patients receiving cardiovascular medicines following MI increased the odds of non-persistence. Prescribers and pharmacists need to take steps to warn patients about this possible variation in appearance.

Hospital Variation in Thrombolysis Times Among Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke: The Contributions of Door-to-Imaging Time and Imaging-to-Needle Time

JAMA Neurology
This research suggests that imaging-to-needle (ITN) time is a greater source of variability than door-to-imaging time for door-to-needle times in acute ischaemic stroke. The authors conclude that more attention is needed to determine systems changes that can decrease ITN time.

The above records have been identified by UKMi and feature in the NICE Medicines Awareness Service. Further details on this service can be found at:
http://www.evidence.nhs.uk/about-evidence-services/content-and-sources/medicines-information/new-medicines-awareness-services