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Alcohol and Drug Use
The Basics
• Heavy drinkers: Reduce or stop consumption
• Persons who continue drinking: ≤ 2 drinks/day for men; ≤ 1 drink/day for nonpregnant women
• Abusing drugs associated with stroke: therapeutic/rehabilitation program
The Bottom Line: The relationship between alcohol and the brain is complex. Alcohol reportedly has antiatherogenic and anti-inflammatory effects and has been linked with improved cholesterol profiles, platelet and clotting function, and insulin sensitivity and a lower risk for both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. However, the key seems to be moderation: The potential cardiovascular benefits of alcohol appear to come with mild to moderate consumption, whereas heavy consumption is associated with increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke and more severe ischemic cerebral events.
As the guidelines point out, several drugs of abuse beyond alcohol are also associated with both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes; these drugs include cocaine, khat, and amphetamines. However, there are no trials showing an association between abstinence from these compounds and reduced stroke risk.
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