A host of prospective, randomized, parallel group studies of thrombolytic agents in acute ischemic stroke have been conducted. The results of these studies have generally been congruent, but only one study, the American rTPA study, has actually met the conditions and achieved the goals sought in the other studies.

In the American rTPA study, rTPA was administered in a protocol similar to that used in the treatment of acute MI within 3 hours of cessation of normal neurologic function.

In the placebo group, roughly 35% of patients recovered to the extent that they either had a normal neurologic exam or were independent in activities of daily living.

Copyright 2000