Tongxinluo capsule for acute stroke
Abstract Background Tongxinluo capsules are a compound of Chinese traditional medicine which contain substances that are thought to have vasodilatory, antiplatelet, anticoagulant, thrombolytic and even lipid-lowering properties, and therefore may improve outcome after acute ischaemic stroke. To date the evidence of its effect has not been systematically reviewed, making it difficult to derive robust conclusions […]
Vinpocetine for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Vasoactive and neuroprotective drugs such as vinpocetine are used to treat stroke in some countries. Objectives To assess the effect of vinpocetine in acute ischaemic stroke. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched February 2007), MEDLINE (1966 to February 2007) and Scopus (1960 to February 2007). We also […]
Mannitol for acute stroke
Abstract Background Mannitol is an osmotic agent and a free radical scavenger which might decrease oedema and tissue damage in stroke. Objectives To test whether treatment with mannitol reduces short and long-term case fatality and dependency after acute ischaemic stroke or intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (searched […]
Dan Shen agents for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Based mainly on experimental data that indicates improvement to the cerebral microcirculation, Dan Shen, a herbal medicine, is widely used in the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke in China. Objectives To assess the effects of Dan Shen agents in patients with acute ischaemic stroke. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials […]
Angioplasty for intracranial artery stenosis
Abstract Background Intracranial artery stenosis causes up to 10% of all ischaemic strokes. The rate of recurrent vascular ischaemic events is very high. Angioplasty with or without stent placement is a feasible procedure to dilate the vessel affected. However, its safety and efficacy have not been systematically studied. Objectives To determine the efficacy and safety […]
Ginkgo biloba for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Ginkgo biloba extract is widely used in the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke in China. We aimed to assess the evidence from randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised controlled trials on the use of Ginkgo biloba extract in acute ischaemic stroke. Objectives The primary objective was to determine whether Ginkgo biloba extract improves functional […]
Acupuncture for acute stroke
Abstract Background Acupuncture-like sensory stimulation activates multiple efferent (nerve) pathways leading to altered activity in numerous neural systems. Acupuncture is widely accepted by Chinese people and it is increasingly requested by patients and their relatives in Western countries. Objectives To assess the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in patients with acute stroke. Search methods We […]
Prostacyclin and analogues for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Prostacyclin is an agent with a number of effects on platelets, blood vessels and nerve cells which might improve outcome after acute ischaemic stroke. Objectives To assess the effect of prostacyclin or analogues on survival in people with acute ischaemic stroke. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched […]
Pentoxifylline, propentofylline and pentifylline for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Methylxanthine derivatives are vasodilators. They also inhibit platelet aggregation and thromboxane A2 synthesis, decrease the release of free radicals and may be neuroprotective. This review covers an area where no active research is taking place. It will be updated if relevant information becomes available, e.g. on completion of an appropriate study. Objectives To […]
Theophylline, aminophylline, caffeine and analogues for acute ischaemic stroke
Abstract Background Theophylline causes potent cerebral vasoconstriction which decreases blood flow in the non-ischaemic areas of the brain and increases collateral blood flow surrounding the ischaemic region. NOTE: This review covers an area where no active research is taking place. It will be updated if relevant information becomes available. Objectives To assess the effect of […]