Possibility of a rebound phenomenon following antiplatelet therapy withdrawal: A look at the clinical and pharmacological evidence

This review article describes the thrombotic risks associated with discontinuing antiplatelet therapy and the bleeding risks associated with continuing these drugs. By integrating the current understanding of the pharmacology of antiplatelet agents and the kinetics of platelet function recovery, this article unveils the possibility of a pharmacological rebound phenomenon which could lead to adverse ischemic events, and supports the warning against premature discontinuation of antiplatelet drugs issued in current guidelines.