Clopidogrel and Aspirin Together: The Effect on C-Reactive Protein Trial

Summary

Inflammation is associated with worsening outcomes among individuals with CAD; C-reactive protein is a well-known marker of inflammation. Both healthy patients and those with a history of CAD who exhibit elevated CRP are at greater risk for cardiovascular events. Despite CRP's well- documented association with increased risk in the development and progression of CAD, the specific mechanism of elevated CRP in CAD is not known. One possible etiology includes a continuous prothrombotic process associated with CAD. Several studies demonstrate a link between platelet activation and inflammation. If thrombotic processes are involved in the mechanism of elevated CRP, antiplatelet therapy, including clopidogrel, could effectively reduce CRP. Preliminary studies have demonstrated a reduction of CRP with aspirin and a clear association between clopidogrel therapy and reduced CRP, however no randomized trials have been performed. We hypothesize that the proinflammatory effects of platelet activation may be inhibited with combined clopidogrel and aspirin therapy.

Timeline

Start

2005-07

Primary completion

—

Completion

2006-11

Drugs

Indications