Abstract

Dipyridamole (Persantin-Boehringer Ingelheim) was introduced in 1959 as a vasodilator for the treatment of angina, but it is now little used for this purpose. The discovery of its effects on platelets has led to its widespread use in a variety of thrombotic conditions, both alone and in combination with other drugs. The manufacturer claims that dipyridamole “offers a real opportunity in the prevention of thromboembolic disease” and the NHS spends well over £5 million a year on the drug. What is the evidence for its clinical efficacy?