Restenosis is a multifactorial process involving remodeling, neointimal hyperplasia, and thrombosis. Restenosis following balloon angioplasty is mainly due to remodeling, whereas tissue growth and hyperplasia are the predominant phenomena after stent implantation. The pharmacological approach alone is unable to prevent restenosis. Stents have significantly decreased the rate of restenosis without abolishing it altogether, and adjunctive treatment remains necessary to block the detrimental hyperplasia resulting from this foreign body. Four trials suggested a beneficial effect of trapidil, verapamil, probucol, and a nitric oxide donor, although most of these results need confirmation. Gene therapy and radiation are promising, but it will probably take a long time before these methods are available in combination with stenting. The goal of a limited residual risk of 5% to 6% is still far away...