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Antiplatelet therapy in secondary stroke prevention
1College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin and Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229-3900, USA. talbert@uthscsa.edu
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
|February 5, 2002
Summary
Antiplatelet agents like aspirin and clopidogrel are key for preventing ischemic strokes. This review covers current literature on these therapies for secondary stroke prevention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of death in the U.S.
- Antiplatelet agents are crucial for preventing ischemic strokes.
- Current first-line therapies include aspirin, aspirin/dipyridamole, and clopidogrel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on antiplatelet agents for secondary stroke prevention.
- To provide an overview of established and emerging antiplatelet therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antiplatelet agents for secondary stroke prevention.
- Analysis of recommended initial therapies for ischemic stroke.
Main Results:
- Aspirin (50-325 mg daily) is a primary treatment.
- Combination therapy with aspirin (25 mg) and extended-release dipyridamole (200 mg) b.i.d. is recommended.
- Clopidogrel (75 mg daily) is another effective option.
- Ticlopidine (250 mg b.i.d.) is approved but not a first-line therapy.
Conclusions:
- Antiplatelet therapy is essential for secondary stroke prevention.
- Several effective antiplatelet agents are available for clinical use.
- Understanding the nuances of these agents is critical for patient management.
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