Abstract
The aim of the International Stroke Trial (IST) is a reliable assessment of risks and benefits of a simple and easy treatment, i.e. acetylosalicylic acid, and subcutaneously heparin administration in the acute stage of brain stroke. The treatment may considerably reduce mortality and disability of patients after brain stroke. In the sample studied either aspirin (300 mg per 24 hours), or heparin (in two doses: small, 2 x 5000 units, or moderate, 2 x 12500 units), or a combination of the two pharmaceuticals are administered for 14 days during the acute stage of cerebral stroke. Some patients are randomly assigned to the "no medication" condition. Patients from Poland constitute 1,6% of the IST randomized sample. As of 1 September 1994, 74 patients with ischaemic brain stroke completed 14-day follow-up, while 30 patients – a 6-monthjollow up. Mortality rate within 14 days from brain stroke was 9,5%, amounting to 40% within the following 6 months.