Effects of clopidogrel therapy on oxidative stress, inflammation, vascular function, and progenitor cells in stable coronary artery disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Traditional cardiovascular risk factors lead to endothelial injury and activation of leukocytes and platelets that initiate and propagate atherosclerosis. We proposed that clopidogrel therapy in patients with stable coronary artery disease imparts a pleiotropic effect that extends beyond antiplatelet aggregation to other atheroprotective processes.

Methods

Forty-one subjects were randomized in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study to receive either clopidogrel 75 mg daily or placebo for 6 weeks and then transitioned immediately to the other treatment for an additional 6 weeks. We assessed (1) endothelial function as flow-mediated dilation of the brachial artery, (2) arterial stiffness and central augmentation index using applanation tonometry, (3) va

SUBMITTER: Ramadan R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4046585 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature