Is it harmful to take medication long-term after receiving a heart stent?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Long-term medication after cardiac stent placement is generally not harmful. In most cases, long-term drug therapy following stent implantation has minimal impact on the body. The primary purpose of continuous medication is to address issues related to coronary artery narrowing and effectively slow disease progression. If medications are required, patients should avoid adjusting dosages on their own and should actively maintain a healthy diet with balanced nutrition.
Long-term medication after cardiac stent placement is generally not harmful. The detailed analysis is as follows:
Under normal circumstances, long-term medication after stent implantation has minimal impact on the body. The primary purpose of prolonged drug use is to address the issue of coronary artery stenosis, effectively slowing disease progression and helping prevent the development of atherosclerosis. Patients who have undergone stent placement should follow their doctor's instructions to take antiplatelet and lipid-regulating medications long-term. Common antiplatelet drugs include enteric-coated aspirin tablets, clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets, and ticagrelor tablets. Lipid-regulating medications include atorvastatin calcium tablets and rosuvastatin calcium tablets. However, it is important to avoid self-adjusting the dosage—either increasing or decreasing the medication—without medical guidance, as this may negatively affect health and compromise treatment effectiveness. During medication, patients should regularly monitor their blood clotting function and watch for signs such as skin bruising.
Additionally, dietary adjustments are recommended. Maintain a balanced diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods such as barbecue and hot pot, and consume more light, easily digestible foods such as milk and millet porridge.
