At Home After the Stent Procedure

You should be able to return to your normal activities, such as work, sports, and sex, soon afterward. But remember to always check with your doctor prior to doing anything that is physically strenuous.

Your doctor will prescribe medicines for you to take once you leave the hospital. You may need to have follow-up blood tests to monitor the effects of the medicine.

Tips about your medication plan:

• It is very important that you take your medicine exactly as prescribed.
• Be sure not to miss any doses.
• Call your doctor if you develop any adverse effects, such as bleeding, upset stomach, or rash. Or, call if you develop new questions.
• You may need to have follow-up blood tests to monitor the effects of your medicines.

Your doctor may prescribe blood-thinning medicines to help your blood flow more easily through your body. And you will be asked to take a small daily dose of aspirin indefinitely.

In addition, it’s likely your doctor will prescribe antiplatelet medication for a period of time after your stent procedure, usually a minimum of three months, and often longer. It is extremely important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly.

If you stop taking these medicines earlier than instructed, you increase the chances of having a blood clot, heart attack or even death. Alert your doctor if any surgery or dental work would require you to stop or change your medication routine.

Medication Calendar and Card

Following your doctor’s instructions for taking anti-clotting medicine after your stent procedure is important. To help you keep track of your medication routine, download our Medication Calendar

Following the CYPHER^® Stent procedure, you will also receive a small wallet-size identification card. It may have the procedure date, along with important doctors’ names and telephone numbers. You should keep this card with you at all times. It is important to alert any doctor that is treating you that you have received a stent.