What are the results of the CHARISMA trial regarding the use of clopidogrel and aspirin versus aspirin alone for the prevention of atherothrombotic events?
The CHARISMA trial found that clopidogrel and aspirin was more effective than aspirin alone in preventing atherothrombotic events. Specifically, the trial found that the combination of clopidogrel and aspirin reduced the risk of death from cardiovascular causes, non-fatal heart attack, and non-fatal stroke by 16%, 24%, and 14%, respectively, compared with aspirin alone. However, the combination also increased the risk of major bleeding by 1.1%. Thus, the use of the combination should be carefully considered on an individual basis. 