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Drugs for Stroke Prevention
Drugs for Prevention of Stroke
Researchers at the Stanford Stroke Center are evaluating a number of medications that help prevent stroke in high-risk patients, particularly those who have had a previous transient ischemic attach (TIA) or minor stroke.
These drugs fall into two major categories: anticoagulants (such as heparin and warfarin) and antiplatelet agents (such as aspirin and ticlopidine).
- Anticoagulants may be given orally or intravenously. These drugs work by thinning the blood and preventing clotting. They are also used for deep vein thromboses and pulmonary emboli.
- Antiplatelet agents work by preventing or reducing the occurrence in the bloodstream of a phenomenon known as platelet aggregation. When there is damage or injury to a blood vessel, platelets (one type of blood particle) migrate to the scene to initiate a healing process. Large numbers of platelets clump together (aggregate) and form what is essentially a plug.
This aggregation can sometimes result in formation of a thrombus (blood clot) that may block the artery or break loose and block a smaller artery. By preventing this, antiplatelet agents can reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have had TIAs or prior ischemic strokes. Antiplatelet studies are underway at Stanford to determine the most effective ways to administer these agents.
A number of other drug therapies are also under investigation at Stanford. The development of effective preventive medications will continue to be a major goal of the Stanford Stroke Center.
Condition Spotlight
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.
Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.
Our Clinic
The Stanford Stroke Center is a pioneer in using the latest surgical techniques and innovative therapies to rapidly treat individuals experiencing a stroke.