Effects of aspirin on risk and severity of early recurrent stroke after transient ischaemic attack and ischaemic stroke: time-course analysis of randomised trials

The Lancet

Data from 12 trials (n=15,778) found aspirin reduced 6 week risk of recurrent ischaemic stroke (IS) vs. placebo by ~ 60% (HR 0.42, 95% CI, 0.32–0.55, p<0.0001) and disabling or fatal IS by ~70% (0.29, 0.20–0.42, p<0.0001), with greatest benefit in patients with TIA/minor stroke.

Coronary-Artery Bypass Grafting

New England Journal of Medicine

This review covers evidence from trials of CABG vs. medical therapy or vs. percutaneous coronary intervention, as well as complicating factors, indications and evaluation for CABG, morbidity and mortality, and secondary prevention.

Which Oral Anticoagulant for Atrial Fibrillation?

Journal of the American Medical Association

This Medical Letter review summarises the newly available oral anticoagulants and compares them with commonly prescribed warfarin.

Should prophylactic doses of low molecular weight heparins be used in patients with renal impairment?

South West Medicines Information & Training

This updated Medicines Q&A reviews the current literature regarding the use of prophylactic doses of low molecular weight heparins in patients with renal impairment.

The above records have been identified by UKMi and feature in the NICE Medicines Awareness Service. Further details on this service can be found at: http://www.evidence.nhs.uk/about-evidence-services/content-and-sources/medicines-information/new-medicines-awareness-services