We demonstrated that HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, antihypertensives, diuretics, drugs for peptic ulcer and GORD, antithrombotic agents, calcium channel blockers, agents acting on the renin-angiotensin system, drugs used in diabetes, beta blocking agents, and salicylic acid and its derivatives causally increased the risk for stroke. This evidence concerns the gene HMGCR and peptic ulcer disease.