Choices in medical management for prevention of acute ischemic stroke.
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability. Although advances are being made in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, its prevention is equally as important. Identification and management of risk factors are essential. Medical therapy is also helpful in the secondary prevention of ischemic stroke. There are currently four platelet-antiaggregating agents used to prevent ischemic stroke: aspirin, aspirin plus dipyridamole, clopidogrel, and ticlopidine. The relevant studies proving their efficacy are noted, as are some of their similarities and differences. The use of warfarin is also discussed.
Fleck
J D
JD
Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 541 Clinical Drive, CL 365, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. jdfleck@iupui.edu
Biller
J
J
D000208:Acute Disease; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002545:Brain Ischemia / Q000150:complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012307:Risk Factors; D020521:Stroke / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D014859:Warfarin / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000925:Anticoagulants; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors; D014859:Warfarin