Evaluation of Antiplatelet Agents for Secondary Prevention of Stroke Using Mixed Treatment Comparison Meta-analysis

We found that ASA plus DP was more protective than ASA alone for preventing recurrent stroke; however, no difference was found between most direct and indirect comparisons of antiplatelet agents and combinations. More overall hemorrhagic events seemed to occur with the combination of ASA and clopidogrel than with other treatments. Selection of antiplatelet therapy for the secondary prevention of stroke must be individualized according to patient comorbidities, including risk of stroke recurrence and bleeding.