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(Stroke. 2009;40:S133.)
© 2009 American Heart Association, Inc.

Rehabilitation

Amphetamine Trials and Tribulations

From the Department of Medicine (Neurology), Duke Stroke Center, Center for Clinical Health Policy Research, Duke University Medical Center and Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC.

Correspondence to Larry B. Goldstein, MD, FAAN, FAHA, Box 3651, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710. E-mail golds004{at}mc.duke.edu

Background— Laboratory experiments conducted since the 1940s show that amphetamine combined with task-relevant experience improves postbrain injury behavioral outcomes. Several small clinical trials evaluated the approach as a means of improving poststroke recovery.

Results of Review— In laboratory studies, the effect of amphetamine on recovery depends on the location and extent of brain injury, the dosing and timing of amphetamine, and the type, intensity, and timing of concomitant behavioral training. The small clinical trials conducted to date vary considerably in critical aspects of their designs and are largely negative.

Conclusion— The question of whether d-amphetamine combined with physiotherapy is of any clinical value remains unanswered.

Key Words: amphetamine • stroke • recovery • humans