The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine
The Methodist Hospital System. Leading Medicine

Eddy Scurlock Stroke Center

Drug Treatments

Once a diagnosis has been made, the center has an array of drug therapies that can minimize stroke damage. These include:

  • Thrombolytic Agents (tissue plasminogen activator, or tPA)
    These are used to dissolve artery–blocking clots in the brain during the critical early stage of stroke.
  • Neuroprotective Agents
    When given in the early stage of stroke, these can substantially reduce the amount of brain cell death.
  • Preventive Drugs
    These include blood–thinning agents that work in the bloodstream to reduce the possibility of stroke.

Options:

  • Aspirin – Aspirin is the first choice used by your neurologist in treating strokes or preventing future strokes. Aspirin works as an antiplatelet agent, preventing platelets from sticking together and forming clots. However, in some patients aspirin is not an option (i.e. stomach ulcers).
  • Plavix – Plavix is an antiplatelet agent used to prevent platelets from sticking together and forming clots. This medication is often used in conjunction with Aspirin. Patients with a history of stomach ulcers are not candidates for Plavix.
  • Coumadin – Coumadin is an anticoagulant (reduces clots) that may be needed to insure proper blood thinning. This medication is usually prescribed for people that have irregular heartbeats, mechanical heart valves or repeated strokes. If your physician chooses this medication, your blood will need to be tested periodically to insure that blood levels are tightly controlled and your nurse will provide you with additional teaching materials to aid in understanding.
  • Heparin – Heparin is an anticoagulant that is used to maintain a closely monitored blood thinning. This medication provides the patient with immediate blood thinning. Once the medication is removed, its effects are removed. Typically, this medication is used until Coumadin therapy is adequately controlled. It is usually administered via IV or injections.
  • Lovenox – Lovenox is an anticoagulant that is similar to Heparin. It is typically used as an adjunct to Coumadin therapy. Unlike Heparin, Lovenox is only given via injection. It is expensive and not recommended unless you have prescription coverage. Your physician will prescribe Lovenox if needed.