Low-molecular-weight heparins or heparinoids versus standard unfractionated heparin for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs) and heparinoids are anticoagulants that may have more powerful antithrombotic effects than standard unfractionated heparin (UFH) but a lower risk of bleeding complications. This is an update of the original Cochrane Review of these agents, first published in 2001 and last updated in 2008. Objectives To determine whether antithrombotic therapy […]
Puerarin for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Puerarin, a form of herbal medicine, is widely used in the treatment of ischaemic stroke in China. Objectives To assess the effects of puerarin in people with ischaemic stroke. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register and the Chinese Stroke Trials Register (last searched August 2015). In addition, we searched […]
Combined oral contraceptives: the risk of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke
Abstract Background Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) have been associated with an increased risk of arterial thrombosis, i.e. myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke. However, as these diseases are rare in young women and as many types of combined oral contraception exist, the magnitude of the risk and the effect of different hormonal contents of COC preparations […]
Buflomedil for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Few strategies are effective for the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke. Buflomedil is a vasoactive agent that has been used for peripheral arterial diseases. Research studies have suggested that buflomedil may have beneficial effects in people with cerebral vascular diseases, including acute ischaemic stroke, however it has not been approved for treating stroke […]
Mailuoning for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Mailuoning is widely used in the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke in China. Animal experimental studies and clinical pharmacological research indicate that mailuoning might improve blood circulation, prevent ischaemic injury, and protect heart and brain tissue. This review was last published in 2009. As new data have become available, it is necessary to […]
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Most cases of stroke are caused by impairment of blood flow to the brain (ischaemia), which results in a reduction in available oxygen and subsequent cell death. It has been postulated that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may reduce the volume of brain that will die by greatly increasing available oxygen, and it may […]
Interventions for deliberately altering blood pressure in acute stroke
Abstract Background It is unclear whether blood pressure should be altered actively during the acute phase of stroke. This is an update of a Cochrane review first published in 1997, and previously updated in 2001 and 2008. Objectives To assess the clinical effectiveness of altering blood pressure in people with acute stroke, and the effect […]
Haemodilution for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Ischaemic stroke interrupts the flow of blood to part of the brain. Haemodilution is thought to improve the flow of blood to the affected areas of the brain and thus reduce infarct size. Objectives To assess the effects of haemodilution in acute ischaemic stroke. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials […]
Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor agonists for acute stroke
Abstract Background Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor agonists have been shown to have a neuroprotectant effect in reducing infarct size and improving functional outcome in animal models of cerebral ischemia. However, the sedation effects of GABA receptor agonists have limited their wider application in acute stroke patients due to the potential risk of stupor. Objectives […]
Thrombolysis for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Most strokes are due to blockage of an artery in the brain by a blood clot. Prompt treatment with thrombolytic drugs can restore blood flow before major brain damage has occurred and improve recovery after stroke in some people. Thrombolytic drugs, however, can also cause serious bleeding in the brain, which can be […]