Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although it has been shown to be superior to simple antithrombotic drug therapy, most patients are unable to receive timely percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and are treated with conventional triple antithrombotic therapy (aspirin, clopidogrel, low-molecular-weight heparin). Here, we evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding low-dose tirofiban to this regimen. METHODS: A total of 1,783 patient records (unable to receive PCI) indicating non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) were included. A total of 882 received conventional triple antithrombotic therapy; 901 received quadruple antithrombotic therapy. Efficacy was evaluated in terms of major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) parameters. Safety was evaluated based on the occurrence of bleeding events. Data were collected over a 6-month period post treatment. RESULTS: The rate of occurrence of MACE was significantly lower in the quadruple antithrombotic group (10.5% versus 14.1% at 6 months, P=0.02). The log-rank test showed improved survival in the quadruple antithrombotic group. Total bleeding events were higher in the quadruple antithrombotic group (9.7%) than in the triple antithrombotic group (7.1%) (P=0.04); however, this may be attributed to increased clinically insignificant minor bleeding events. CONCLUSION: Quadruple antithrombotic therapy demonstrated a superior alternative for the treatment of high-risk NSTE-ACS patients failing to receive PCI.