No Increase in Clots With Drug-Eluting Stents

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I started reading your story, and wondered if I had written it. Had a heart attack, RCA completely blocked, left 50% blocked. Appeared like RCA was rechanneling, no treatment necessary. About 2 years later, LCA 90% blocked. A Paxal drug eluding stint was inplanted and I started taking Plavix and a 81mg asperin daily. The va provided the Plavix for one year. Their rules do not allow plavix after one year. I started paying for the plavix. Very expensive, asked the Doc. if it was ok to quit, he did not recommend. So I started buying plavic on a Canadia web site. After 3 years I decided to quit based on articles I read on WebMd. The doctor wash't happy. But didn't fuss too much when I told him 6 months after quiting. Its has now been about 9 months and I cannot tell the difference and have had no ill effects. I still take two 81mg asperins daily one in the morning and one in the evening. Goo luck.

Joe Joubert of LA 8:51PM March 29, 2009

Two years ago, I had one TaxusII, drug eluting stent placed in my left descending coronary artery. I was instructed to take Plavix plus asprin daily. Much literature has been published linking this situation with late coronary thrombosis within an indefinite period of time AFTER the Plavix is discontinued. My physicians, including my cardiologist have not been secure in giving me a direct answer to this possible problem. They, have told me that "it's up to the patient"...meaning me, to decide when to stop the Plavix. I did not have a heart attack, only a major blockage, and I do feel better and am generally without any pain or distress. WHEN, can I stop the Plavix, as at my age, 77, there are risks involved should I require surgery? After two years, is it reasonably safe to stop taking the Plavix?
I wish there was a more extensive study which supported making this decision.

Joel Le Bow of PA 2:43PM March 29, 2009