Aspirin for prevention of myocardial infarction
Article Abstract:
Aspirin appears to be effective in preventing a second heart attack in those who have already had one but its use in preventing a first heart attack is controversial. Aspirin prevents the aggregation of blood cells called platelets, which are a component of blood clots. This effect can be achieved within an hour by 100 milligrams of aspirin. Smaller doses can be taken to achieve the same effect after 7 to 10 days. Clinical trials have shown that aspirin can reduce mortality rates in patients who have had a heart attack. It also reduces the number of angina episodes and the incidence of heart attack in patients with stable and unstable angina. Researchers who asked approximately 22,000 healthy male physicians to take aspirin every other day found that those taking aspirin had a lower risk of heart attack but a higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke than those taking a placebo.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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Reteplase (Retavase)
Article Abstract:
The drug reteplase appears to be effective in treating heart attack. Sold under the trade name Retavase, this drug belongs to a class of drugs called thrombolytics. These drugs break up the blood clots that cause heart attacks. The drug is produced using recombinant DNA technology. Studies show it is more effective than Activase in restoring blood flow in blocked coronary arteries. It costs about the same as Activase.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1997
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Tenecteplase (TNKase) for thrombolysis
Article Abstract:
TNKase is available for treating heart attack patients. It is a recombinant form of tissue plasminogen activator, which breaks down blood clots. Most heart attacks are caused by blood clots that block the flow of blood to the heart.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2000
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