Emerging treatments
Cilostazol
Cilostazol is a cyclic adenosine monophosphate phosphodiesterase inhibitor that inhibits platelet aggregation and is a direct arterial vasodilator (often used off-label for secondary stroke prevention). In patients treated with cilostazol for stroke, there was a reduction in secondary stroke and a reduction in aspiration pneumonia.[93][94] However, this medication should not be routinely used due to increased risk for bleeding.[42]
Sensory stimuli
Capsaicin, menthol, and/or black pepper oil may be a low-risk approach to stimulate swallowing and cough reflexes.[42][95] Additional study is warranted.
Other treatments
Amantadine, cabergoline, and theophylline have all been studied in aspiration pneumonia. They all may cause serious adverse events, and their routine use for prevention of aspiration pneumonia is not recommended.[42]
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