Evaluation of a modified Anti-Platelet Therapy associated with low-dose rapamycin DES Firehawk in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients treated with complete revascularization strategy (TARGET-FIRST)
This research study, called TARGET-FIRST, is looking for better ways to care for people who have recently had a heart attack. After a heart attack, patients often need medicines to thin their blood and help prevent future clots. This study compares different combinations of common blood-thinning medications, such as Efient, Brilique, Plavix, and Aspirin, which are given alongside a special type of heart stent. The main goal is to find out which combination is safest and most effective at preventing serious issues like another heart attack, stroke, or significant bleeding over the course of about a year. It's for adult men and women of any age who have had a heart attack and received a stent.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Heart attacks happen when blood flow to the heart is blocked. After a heart attack, doctors often use a procedure to open up blocked arteries, and patients are given special tubes called stents to keep those arteries open. To prevent new blockages, patients also need to take medicines that stop their blood from clotting too much. These are often called 'blood thinners' or 'anti-platelet' medicines.
This study, called TARGET-FIRST, is looking at different combinations of these important blood-thinning medicines. The goal is to find the best way to use these medications alongside a special type of stent (called a low-dose rapamycin DES Firehawk stent). Researchers want to see which combination is most effective at preventing serious problems, such as another heart attack, a stroke, or severe bleeding.
The main thing the study is tracking is whether patients experience what doctors call 'Net Adverse Clinical and Cerebral Events' during the first year after their heart attack. This is a way of adding up all very serious health problems like death, another heart attack, a stroke, or a major bleed. By comparing different medicine combinations, the study hopes to improve how we treat people after a heart attack, making it safer and more effective for future patients.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates different blood-thinning medicines after a heart attack.
- It aims to find the safest and most effective medication combination.
- The study measures serious health issues like repeat heart attack, stroke, or major bleeding.
- Participants will be closely monitored for about 12 months.
- It's for adults (18+) who have recently had a heart attack.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults who have recently had a heart attack. Both men and women are welcome to take part.
To be considered, you must be at least 18 years old. There isn't an upper age limit mentioned, so older adults may also be able to participate.
Beyond these basic requirements, doctors will check other specific medical details to make sure the study is a good fit for you and that it's safe for you to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you recently had a heart attack?
- Are you male or female?
- Have you had a stent placed in your heart after your heart attack?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be assigned to take a specific combination of blood-thinning medicines. These are all established medications, but the study is looking at their use together in particular situations. You will take these medicines as prescribed by the study doctors after your heart attack treatment.
Throughout the study, which lasts for about 12 months after your heart attack, you'll have regular check-ups and assessments. These visits will allow the medical team to monitor your health closely, see how you're responding to the medication, and check for any side effects. The main period of observation for serious events is 11 months after you start the study. There will also be follow-up to check for bleeding events. The exact number of visits and tests will be explained to you in detail by the study team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- —UnverifiedSpain
- —UnverifiedNetherlands
- —UnverifiedItaly
Common questions
What is a 'heart attack' in simple terms?
A heart attack happens when the blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot, damaging the heart muscle.
What are 'blood-thinning medicines'?
These are medicines that help prevent blood clots from forming or getting larger, which is important after a heart attack to keep your arteries open.
What is the main thing the study hopes to find out?
The study wants to know which combination of blood-thinning medicines works best and is safest for patients after a heart attack to prevent serious problems like another heart attack, stroke, or major bleeding.
Am I paid for taking part in the study?
Generally, participants in clinical trials like this one are not paid, but sometimes travel expenses may be covered. This will be discussed with you by the study team.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You'll be part of the study for about 12 months after your heart attack treatment, with close monitoring for the first 11 months, focusing on specific health events.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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