HIV medicine 'could increase chance of stroke'

People using HIV medication may be at a higher risk of stroke, new research shows.

Scientists at the University of California, San Diego, found that while the overall stroke rate in the US has decreased, they have increased among those with HIV.

This has sparked fears that treatment for the virus could be linked to the incidence of cardiovascular issues.

As of yet there is no direct link between the medication and the higher stroke rate but previous research has hinted that the drugs can boost cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are known to contribute to stroke risk.

According to Bloomberg Businessweek, Dr Bruce Ovbiagele said: "Until we have a better idea what's happening, this is a call or reminder to clinicians to be cognizant of these risk factors for stroke in these HIV patients."

This comes after scientists at the Baptist Cardiac & Vascular Institute in Miami found that stents could be important in helping critical stroke patients where other treatments have failed.

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