A stroke may occur in response to reduced blood supply to the brain. When this happens, brain tissue does not receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, which can lead to death of brain cells. It is very important that treatment of a stroke begin as soon as possible to limit the amount of damage to the brain. Signs and symptoms of a stroke typically occur suddenly and include weakness or numbness in one side of the body, difficulty speaking, blurred vision, and dizziness.
Immediate treatment of a stroke is crucial. Tissue plasminogen activator drugs, such as alteplase (Activase) and reteplase (Retavase), are often injected into the vein to dissolve a blood clot. However, these types of medications must be used within three hours of the occurrence of the stroke. Persons who experience an ischemic stroke may not receive this type of treatment if the length of time between symptom onset and treatment is too long. Physicians may also prescribe medications for the prevention of the recurrence of ischemic stroke in persons who have experienced a previous ischemic stroke. Anti-platelet medications, such as clopidogrel (Plavix) and ticlopidine (Ticlid), reduce the likelihood of clotformation. Anticoagulant medications, such as heparin and warfarin (Coumadin), also work to affect blood clotting.
Do you have a question that you would like answered? Contact the helpful and knowledgeable Pharmacists at Cheek & Scott Drugs, in Live Oak and Lake City, Florida.
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