The invention provides pyridoxal and pyridoxine analogues, pharmaceutical compositions containing pyridoxine and pyridoxal analogues, and methods of administering pharmaceutical compositions containing a therapeutically effective amount of at least one of these analogues. In accordance with the present invention, the pyridoxal and pyridoxine analogues can be used in the treatment or prevention of of heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), stroke, and ischemia, and in the treatment of symptoms thereof. The the pyridoxal and pyridoxine analogues can be used in neuroprotection.