Argatroban in thrombotic stroke.

Evidence for the potential use of direct thrombin inhibition in the treatment of acute stroke is reviewed. Reduction of secondary microthrombi and improved regional collateral cerebral blood flow is the proposed mechanism of action of thrombin inhibition for the treatment of cerebral ischemia. A clinical study in Japan found that argatroban administered within 48 h of stroke symptom onset is safe and effective in reducing neurological impairment due to ischemic stroke. The implications of further clinical studies are discussed. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel