Dec 14, 2009 1:00 PM MSTNPR Story on Stroke Drug t-PA
Drug Can Stop Strokes, But Most Patients Don't Get It
On December 14, 2009 National Public Radio's Morning Edition ran a story detailing the experience of Beverly Sylvia, of North Dartmouth, Massachusetts, who was fortunate to be one of the 5% of eligible stroke victims to receive the clot-busting drug t-PA which doctors credit with her full recovery. The drug must be given within the first three hours of the onset of stroke symptoms and can only be given when the stroke is caused by a clot and is not appropriate in all stroke situations. However, when used appropriately t-PA can be an important and effective tool for neurologists to use to help their patients. Ms. Sylvia's experience illustrates the importance of seeking medical attention at the first symptom of stroke.