The present invention provides methods, compositions, formulations, and kits related to acadesine, or a prodrug, analog, or salt thereof, and/or a blood clotting inhibitor for preventing or reducing adverse side effects in a patient. The type of patient that may benefit includes a patient with decreased left ventricular function, a patient with a prior myocardial infarction, a patient undergoing non-vascular surgery, or a fetus during labor and delivery.