Aspirin is given to most patients with an ischaemic stroke because it has been shown to reduce the risk of recurrence and a poor outcome (death or disability). The first International Stroke trial (IST-1) also showed that the risk of pulmonary embolism was reduced slightly.
The International Stroke Trial, 1997.
ESO VTE guidelines for ischaemic stroke
Page last reviewed: 22 Apr 2020
