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Published on: January 18, 2018
Progress in clinical neurosciences: pharmacotherapies for the secondary prevention of stroke
Daniel G Hackam1, Moira K Kapral
1From the Division of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Insights
Secondary stroke prevention strategies are evolving beyond traditional methods. This review examines newer pharmacotherapies and interventions for reducing recurrent cerebrovascular events and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Stroke is a major global cause of death and disability.
- Survivors face high risks of recurrent cerebrovascular events and other vascular conditions.
- Established secondary prevention includes aspirin, warfarin, and carotid endarterectomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging pharmacotherapies for secondary stroke prevention.
- To assess the clinical significance of novel treatment options.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for preventing recurrent stroke.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on stroke prevention therapies.
- Analysis of evidence for antiplatelet agents, lipid-lowering drugs, and antihypertensives.
- Evaluation of B vitamins and direct thrombin inhibitors for specific patient groups.
Main Results:
- Newer antiplatelet agents offer expanded therapeutic options.
- Lipid-lowering drugs and blood pressure management are crucial.
- Emerging treatments like B vitamins and direct thrombin inhibitors show promise for select populations.
Conclusions:
- Secondary stroke prevention requires a comprehensive approach.
- Novel pharmacotherapies enhance treatment strategies for at-risk individuals.
- Updated recommendations guide the use of diverse interventions to minimize recurrent stroke.
Abstract:
Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. Survivors of a previous stroke or transient ischemic attack are vulnerable to further cerebrovascular events, as well as myocardial infarction, peripheral vascular disease, congestive heart failure and vascular death. Traditional approaches to the secondary prevention of stroke have included aspirin after ischemic stroke, warfarin for stroke associated with cardioembolic sources, and carotid endarterectomy for eligible candidates with significant carotid artery stenosis. In recent years, much evidence has emerged to support a broader array of pharmacotherapies, including newer antiplatelet agents, lipid lowering drugs, and several classes of blood pressure lowering therapies. Also under study are B vitamins for patients with cerebrovascular disease and hyper-homocysteinemia, and oral direct thrombin inhibitors for high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation. We review the literature to determine the clinical significance of these therapies, and provide recommendations regarding their use in the prevention of recurrent stroke.
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