Cocaine Dependence and Stroke: Pathogenesis and Management.

Cocaine Dependence and Stroke: Pathogenesis and Management.
Curr Neurovasc Res. 2015 Mar 4;
Authors: Siniscalchi A, Bonci A, Mercuri NB, Siena A, Sarro G, Malferrari G, Diana M, Gallelli L
Abstract
Cocaine abuse remains a devastating medical problem for our society. Current concepts suggest that both hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke, particularly in young people, can result as a consequence of cocaine exposure. We provide an analysis of mechanisms of injury and a discussion of the pharmacological management of stroke following cocaine use. Preclinical research suggests that the cause of cocaine-mediated stroke is multifactorial and involves vasospasm, changes in cerebral vasculature, and platelet aggregation. We suggest that drugs able to induce vasospastic, thrombogenic, or neurotoxic effects of cocaine could be suitable as therapeutic agents. In contrast caution should be exerted when using anti-platelet and thrombolytic agents in cocaine users with stroke.
PMID: 25742568 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Source: Current Neurovascular Research - March 4, 2015 Category: Neurology Authors: Siniscalchi A, Bonci A, Mercuri NB, Siena A, Sarro G, Malferrari G, Diana M, Gallelli L Tags: Curr Neurovasc Res Source Type: research