April 2018
Rivaroxaban for prevention of cardiovascular events following an episode of decompensated heart failure
Rivaroxaban is an oral medicine which prevents the development of blood clots by blocking the formation of a molecule called thrombin which is a key part of the process of blood clot formation. Rivaroxaban has the potential to reduce thrombin and blood clot formation in people with heart failure and coronary artery disease. This is potentially important as patients with heart failure after an episode of acute decompensation have been seen to have increased levels of thrombin. No other drug is currently licenced for use in this group of patients which targets thrombin.
September 2017
Canakinumab (ILARIS®) for Cardiovascular risk reduction – Add on therapy
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a general term that refers to all conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels (circulation). These include angina, heart attack (also known as myocardial infarction), heart failure, stroke, and a number of diseases that affect the blood vessels. CVD is usually associated with a build-up of fatty deposits inside the blood …
March 2017
Magnetically-Enhanced Diffusion System for acute ischaemic stroke
The Magnetically-Enhanced Diffusion (MED) System™ in development by Pulse Therapeutics, Inc is designed to improve the delivery of thrombolytic therapy in people who have had an acute ischaemic stroke by using intravenously-injected iron nanoparticles and an externally positioned rotating magnetic field.
November 2016
Evolocumab (Repatha) for cardiovascular event prevention – add on therapy
Evolocumab is a drug that may prevent cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke, by reducing cholesterol. These diseases are the main cause of death in the UK, accounting for over a quarter of deaths each year. Evolocumab is given via an injection in combination with another drug (usually a statin) and changes to …
October 2016
SMARTChip for early diagnosis of suspected stroke
SMARTChip is a point-of-care test to aid in the early diagnosis of stroke. It has been developed by Sarissa Biomedical Ltd. The test is intended for use in the emergency room and by paramedics on any patient satisfying the FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) algorithm for suspected stroke. The assay uses a hand-held reader and …
August 2016
Ticagrelor (Brilique) for peripheral arterial disease
Peripheral arterial disease is a common condition in which a build-up of fatty deposit in the arteries (atherosclerosis) restricts blood supply to leg muscles. Many people with peripheral arterial disease have no symptoms. However, some people develop a painful ache in their legs when they walk, which usually disappears after a few minutes’ rest. While …
