Combination pharmacotherapy for achievement and maintenance of vascular patency

Abstract

Acute ischemic stroke results from an abrupt interruption of focal cerebral blood flow. In the majority of cases, this interruption is caused by an acute thromboembolism. Arising from the clinical trials in acute myocardial infarction, combination pharmacotherapy is gaining significant interest as a potential method to improve current thrombolytic treatment in acute ischemic stroke. This article reviews the scientific rationale and available evidence for the potential options to improve current pharmacologic therapy for achieving and maintaining vascular patency in acute ischemic stroke. © 2009 American Heart Association, Inc.