A critical assessment of edaravone acute ischemic stroke efficacy trials: is edaravone an effective neuroprotective therapy?

Importance of the field: Edaravone (Radicut®) is a free radical scavenger marketed in Japan by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corp. to treat acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients presenting within 24 h of the attack. Injectable edaravone ampoules (30 mg b.i.d., i.v., 14 days) were first approved on 23 May 2001. On 19 January 2010, as a new innovation, the Radicut BAG (Intravenous BAG) was approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare. Efficacy of edaravone ranges from large significant clinical improvements to only modest improvements in clinical function measured using standard stroke scales when administered 6 – 72 h following an ischemic stroke. With almost 17 years of edaravone clinical experience, a few adverse events – including acute renal failure – have been noted.