The CYPHER (Cordis, Johnson & Johnson) sirolimus-eluting stent and the TAXU (Boston Scientific) paclitaxel-eluting stent have been extensively evaluated and have been proven to be significant novel tools for the treatment of coronary artery disease. Several sirolimus derivatives have already emerged, receiving CE Mark approval. However, in the future, it is likely that drugs presently under investigation will address additional mechanisms associated with neointimal formation, either as single agents or in combination with antiproliferative compounds. Concurrently, alterations on stent platform design (helicoidal, open-closed cell), coatings (biodegradable, bioabsorbable, nanoporous) and polymers are being explored.