Use of heparinoids to treat acute ischemic stroke

Low molecular weight heparinoids (LMWHs) offer a new treatment option to patients experiencing acute ischemic stroke. These heparin sub-fractions provide an increased risk/benefit ratio when compared to standard heparin, and allow patients to achieve better functional outcomes with fewer neurologic deficits. Because LMWHs separate the antithrombotic activity of standard heparin from its anticoagulant and antiplatelet-aggregating effects, they are safer, but equally or more effective than heparin.