The role of platelets in transient ischemic attacks and cerebral vascular accidents.

In a 5 1/2-year study in 585 patients, aspirin, 1200 mg/day, reduced 50% the risk of stroke or death in men who had experienced at least one episode of neurological disability in carotid or vertebral-basilar territory. Adding sulfinpyrazone to aspirin did not improve the results, and sulfinpyrazone alone was no better than placebo. Women did not experience the same benefit; aspirin did not reduce their risk of stroke or death.