Anticoagulants versus antiplatelet therapy for preventing stroke in patients with nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation and a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack
Abstract Background People with nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation (NRAF) who have had a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor ischemic stroke are at risk of recurrent stroke. Both warfarin and aspirin have been shown to reduce the recurrence of vascular events. Objectives The objective of this review was to compare the effect of anticoagulants with antiplatelet […]
Circulatory volume expansion therapy for aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
Abstract Background Secondary ischaemia is a frequent complication after aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), and responsible for a substantial proportion of patients with poor outcome after SAH. The cause of secondary ischaemia is unknown, but hypovolaemia and fluid restriction are important risk factors. Therefore, volume expansion therapy (hypervolaemia) is frequently used in patients with SAH to […]
Omega 3 fatty acids for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease
Abstract Background It has been suggested that omega 3 (W3, n-3 or omega-3) fats from oily fish and plants are beneficial to health. Objectives To assess whether dietary or supplemental omega 3 fatty acids alter total mortality, cardiovascular events or cancers using both RCT and cohort studies. Search methods Five databases including CENTRAL, MEDLINE and […]
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 […]
Glycerol for acute stroke
Abstract Background Brain oedema is a major cause of early death after stroke. A 10% solution of glycerol is a hyperosmolar agent that is claimed to reduce brain oedema. Objectives To determine whether intravenous glycerol treatment in acute stroke, either ischaemic or haemorrhagic, influences death rates and functional outcome in the short or long term, […]
Anticoagulants for preventing stroke in patients with nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation and a history of stroke or transient ischaemic attack
Abstract Background People with nonrheumatic atrial fibrillation (NRAF) who have had a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or a minor ischaemic stroke are at high risk of recurrent stroke. Objectives The objective of this review was to assess the effect of anticoagulants for secondary prevention, after a stroke or TIA, in patients with NRAF. Search methods […]
Thrombolysis for cerebral vein and dural sinus thrombosis
Abstract Background Treatment of cerebral sinus thrombosis with thrombolytics has been reported in cases with a deteriorating clinical course despite anticoagulant therapy. The rationale of this treatment is to promote rapid recanalisation of the occluded sinus. Objectives To review the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of thrombolysis in confirmed cerebral sinus thrombosis. Search […]
Advice to reduce dietary salt for prevention of cardiovascular disease
Abstract Background Restricting sodium intake in hypertensive patients over short periods of time reduces blood pressure. Long term effects (on mortality, morbidity or blood pressure) of advice to reduce salt in patients with elevated or normal blood pressure are unclear. Objectives To assess in adults the long term effects (mortality, cardiovascular events, blood pressure, quality […]