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Drug evaluation of clopidogrel in patients with ischemic stroke

Ameer E Hassan1, Haralabos Zacharatos, M Fareed K Suri

  • 1University of Minnesota, Zeenat Qureshi Stroke Research Center, Department of Neurology, 82 - 100 Phillips Wangensteen Building, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, USA.

Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
|October 25, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Clopidogrel effectively prevents ischemic events in cardiovascular patients. Current evidence is insufficient for acute ischemic stroke, but it shows promise as an aspirin alternative, requiring further research.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Clopidogrel is a key antiplatelet agent for secondary prevention of ischemic events.
  • It is used in cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review clopidogrel's role in ischemic stroke patients.
  • To analyze existing data from randomized and pilot trials on its indications.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of clopidogrel's mechanism of action and pharmacology.
  • Review of data from major Phase III trials (CAPRIE, MATCH) and pilot studies.

Main Results:

  • Clopidogrel's role in secondary prevention is well-established by Phase III trials.
  • Data for acute ischemic stroke and neurointerventional procedures is evolving.
  • Insufficient data currently exists to recommend clopidogrel for acute ischemic stroke.

Conclusions:

  • Clopidogrel may serve as a valuable alternative to aspirin.
  • Further studies are needed to define its role in specific acute ischemic stroke patient groups.

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