Prevention of stroke in patients with chronic coronary syndromes or peripheral arterial disease

William A.E. Parker, Diana A. Gorog, Tobias Geisler, Gemma Vilahur, Dirk Sibbing, Bianca Rocca, Robert F. Storey

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Stroke is a common and devastating condition caused by atherothrombosis, thromboembolism, or haemorrhage. Patients with chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) or peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at increased risk of stroke because of shared pathophysiological mechanisms and risk-factor profiles. A range of pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies can help to reduce stroke risk in these groups. Antithrombotic therapy reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, including ischaemic stroke, but increases the incidence of haemorrhagic stroke. Nevertheless, the net clinical benefits mean antithrombotic therapy is recommended in those with CCS or symptomatic PAD. Whilst single antiplatelet therapy is recommended as chronic treatment, dual antiplatelet therapy should be considered for those with CCS with prior myocardial infarction at high ischaemic but low bleeding risk. Similarly, dual antithrombotic therapy with aspirin and very-low-dose rivaroxaban is an alternative in CCS, as well as in symptomatic PAD. Full-dose anticoagulation should always be considered in those with CCS/PAD and atrial fibrillation. Unless ischaemic risk is particularly high, antiplatelet therapy should not generally be added to full-dose anticoagulation. Optimization of blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein levels, glycaemic control, and lifestyle characteristics may also reduce stroke risk. Overall, a multifaceted approach is essential to best prevent stroke in patients with CCS/PAD.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)M26-M34
JournalEUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL SUPPLEMENTS
Volume22
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Anticoagulant drugs
  • Antiplatelet drugs
  • Aspirin
  • Clopidogrel
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Myocardial infarction
  • Peripheral arterial disease
  • Rivaroxaban
  • Stroke
  • Ticagrelor

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