[Secondary prophylaxis after ischemic stroke and transitoric ischemic attack].

BACKGROUND

Approximately 13,000 persons develop a stroke in Norway each year. 3,000 of these are recurrent strokes. There are also more than 10,000 patients who experience a transitory ischemic attack each year which often immediately precedes a stroke. The aim of this review article is to present updated treatment recommendations for secondary prophylaxis after an ischemic stroke or TIA.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This article is based on the guidelines from the European Stroke Initiative, the American Stroke Association and review articles found by searching Medline and the Cochrane database. New relevant randomized studies are also included and discussed. Therapy guidelines have been modified for Norwegian use.

RESULTS AND INTERPRETATION

Individualised secondary prophylaxis following an ischemic stroke or TIA can prevent cerebrovascular disease and death. It is especially important with optimal blood pressure and blood glucose control as well as adequate antithrombotic and lipid-lowering treatment.