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Stroke

Clopidogrel in stroke

12/14/2006

Question:

is there any role to add clopidogrel for pt who had stroke inspite he was on aspirin

Answer:

The combination of aspirin and clopidogrel is not advisable at this time.  A recent study showed that this combination was not better at preventing strokes than clopidogrel alone, and the combination led to more serious bleeding side effects.  Most stroke neurologists feel that it is thus best to use either aspirin by itself or clopidogrel by itself, or there is a third alternative which combines aspirin with an extended release preparation of dipyridamole.  All of these agents prevent stroke by inhibiting platelet function (the sticky cells in the blood that help form blood clots).  Other measures to prevent stroke include treating high blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, eating a heart-healthy diet, exercising, and stopping tobacco use.

It is best to discuss optimal measures for stroke prevention with the physician who knows you best.

For more information:

Go to the Stroke health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Brett Kissela, MD Brett Kissela, MD
Assistant Professor of Neurology
Director, Neurology Residency Program
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati