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(Stroke. 2007;38:791.)
© 2007 American Heart Association, Inc.

New Approaches to Clinical Trials in Neuroprotection: Introduction

Clinical Trials of Neuroprotective Therapies

Justin A. Zivin, MD, PhD

From the University of California San Diego, La Jolla, Calif.

Correspondence to Justin A. Zivin, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093-0624. E-mail jzivin{at}ucsd.edu

Abstract

There have been numerous failures in the field of acute stroke therapy over many years, but the first large clinical trial showing preliminary indications of efficacy and safety of a neuroprotective drug, NXY-059, has now been fully reported. If confirmed, it will mean that a second therapy for acute stroke has been identified and neuroprotective drug development as a class can proceed. Additionally, a new class of drugs, HMG CoA-reductase inhibitors (statins), specifically high-dose atorvastatin, has been shown to be safe and effective for secondary stroke prevention. This drug should now become a regular part of stroke patient care.

Key Words: acute Rx • acute stroke • free radicals • prevention • statins

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