Final answer:
Clopidogrel is used as an alternative anti-platelet therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with aspirin allergy or those who cannot tolerate aspirin.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clopidogrel is often prescribed as an alternative to aspirin for the prevention of cardiovascular events, especially for patients with coronary artery disease who cannot tolerate aspirin due to allergy or adverse effects. While aspirin is routinely administered to reduce the adverse effects of a heart attack or stroke by inhibiting platelet aggregation, it also comes with the risk of serious side effects, such as ulcers. Dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT), which includes the use of clopidogrel in combination with aspirin, is more effective in reducing cardiovascular events in patients with an acute coronary syndrome like a STEMI than aspirin alone. However, in patients who are not experiencing an acute event and are at high risk, such as those with a stent, the benefits of extended clopidogrel plus aspirin therapy beyond 12 months are not clear. For those with an aspirin allergy, clopidogrel is a suitable substitute for anti-platelet therapy.