Indobufen-based dual antiplatelet therapy in patients undergoing PCI: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Why clinicians should know about it

• Picked for Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine (paper of the day, 9 August 2026): Indobufen‑based DAPT reduces bleeding with comparable MACE

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Conventional dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) post percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) comprises aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor. However, aspirin increases gastrointestinal and bleeding risks. Indobufen, a reversible COX-1 inhibitor, may offer a safer alternative. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether replacing aspirin with indobufen in DAPT provides comparable efficacy and improved safety in patients undergoing PCI. METHODS: Six databases were systematically searched until 24 February 2026. The primary outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) for efficacy and bleeding events for safety. Subgroup analyses, particularly for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients, were conducted. RESULTS: Twelve studies involving 7,928 patients were included. Indobufen demonstrated comparable efficacy to aspirin in preventing MACE (OR = 0.89, 95% CI 0.73-1.10, P = 0.284). Crucially, indobufen significantly reduced bleeding events compared to aspirin (OR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.35-0.74, P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses across ACS status and specific P2Y12 inhibitors (clopidogrel or ticagrelor) consistently supported these findings. CONCLUSION: For patients undergoing PCI, an indobufen-based DAPT regimen appears to reduce bleeding risk while offering comparable MACE prevention relative to conventional aspirin-based DAPT. However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously due to existing limitations.

Abstract as published, via PubMed.