CLOMETHIAZOLE (ZENDRA(R)) IN ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE - BASIC PHARMACOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY AND CLINICAL EFFICACY

This review discusses the efficacy of clomethiazole (CMZ) in models of global and focal ischemia, The fact that neuroprotection is demonstra ble by using histological, biochemical, and functional measures is emp hasised. The importance of the neuroprotection observed when the drug is given after the ischemic insult and at doses that are safely tolera ted by humans is discussed, with reference to requirements necessary f or an experimental neuroprotective agent to be considered as a therape utic drug for stroke. The biochemical pharmacology of CMZ is reviewed and also evaluated with reference to the possible mechanism(s) by whic h CMZ exerts its neuroprotective action. Finally, the clinical evidenc e that CMZ protects against the neurological consequences of a major s troke is outlined. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.