What medications treat stroke?

TPA (alteplase): The most important drug to come along for stroke are the so-called clot busters. Tpa (alteplase) can be given intravenously and can reverse some or all of the potential damage from a clogged artery if given within a few hours. Everyone should know the warning signs of stroke and make sure the patient gets to the er quickly.

Prevention is best: Although tpa (alteplase) is important, best to avoid need for this. Be mindful of risks, such as hypertension, diabetes, high blood fats, smoking, some illicit drugs (cocaine, etc), hyperhomocysteinemia, obesity, concurrent heart disease. Preventatives include the antiplatelet drugs, such as clopidogrel, aggrenox, and to a lesser extent aspirin. Some new anticoagulants can be considered.