Aspirin Therapy for Cerebral Infarction: Benefits and Treatment Approaches

Aspirin is a widely used medication in the treatment of cerebral infarction, offering significant therapeutic benefits for patients in both the acute and recovery stages of the condition. Its effectiveness in preventing further complications makes it a cornerstone in stroke management.

Acute Phase Treatment

For patients in the acute phase of cerebral infarction, timely intervention is crucial. If the onset of symptoms is within six hours, thrombolytic therapy is typically recommended to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow. However, if the patient presents beyond the thrombolytic time window, early administration of aspirin becomes essential to inhibit platelet aggregation and prevent further clot formation.

In addition to aspirin, neuroprotective agents are often prescribed to support brain function and reduce damage. These may include drugs such as Oxiracetam, Piracetam, Edaravone, Vincamine, and Cytidine Diphosphate Choline. To enhance cerebral circulation, medications like Shuxuening (a standardized extract of Ginkgo biloba), Troxerutin, and Ligustrazine may also be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Recovery Phase Management

Role of Aspirin in Recovery and Prevention

During the recovery phase, aspirin continues to play a dual role by not only aiding in the healing process but also serving as a preventive measure against future events. For middle-aged and elderly patients with comorbidities such as hyperglycemia, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or hyperhomocysteinemia, long-term aspirin therapy is often advised to maintain antiplatelet activity and reduce the risk of recurrent stroke.

Combination with Statins for Optimal Outcomes

To further reduce the likelihood of a second stroke or myocardial infarction, statin therapy is commonly introduced alongside aspirin. Statins such as Simvastatin, Rosuvastatin, and Atorvastatin help regulate lipid levels, stabilize atherosclerotic plaques, and improve overall vascular health. This dual approach—combining antiplatelet and lipid-lowering therapies—has been shown to significantly improve long-term outcomes in patients with cerebral infarction.