Workshop II: "Neuroprotection" - the Lugano consensus

Consensus could be reached that there is overwhelming evidence of preclinic al neuroprotection. However, the evidence of neuroprotection/neurorescue un der clinical conditions is limited. Lessons from clinical trials designed t o show neuroprotection (selegiline, amantadine, dopamine agonists) demonstr ate that with the drugs available neuroprotection/neurorescue has to start as early as possible. A PET-controlled clinical trial with ropinirole shows that there seems to be a good chance for neuroprotection in the early phas e of Parkinson's disease in patients treated from the very beginning of the disease while there is no such benefit in patients with a late start of a neuroprotective therapeutic strategy. Also long-term neuroprotection cannot be reached. Complicating factors to demonstrate clinical neuroprotection a re discussed.