Edaravone in acute ischemic stroke, An Indian experience

Background and Objective: This study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of edaravone, a novel free radical scavenger, in a group of Indian patients of acute ischemic stroke. Methods: Twenty two patients of acute ischemic stroke were given 30 mg of Edaravone twice daily for 14 days by infusion. The outcome assessment was by the Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) and Barthel Index (BI). MRS score ≤ 2 at 90 days was considered as a favorable outcome. Results: Fifteen patients (68%) had favorable outcome. The mean MRS score decreased from 4.01±0.92 at baseline to 1.86±1.07 at day 90 (p<0.005). The mean Barthel index increased from 40.00±30.11 at baseline to 75.62±22.86 at day 90 (p<0.005). The changes in the MRS and BI were observed from 7 days. None of the patients experienced any adverse effect. Conclusion: Edaravone treatment was safe and effective in providing early and sustained neurological improvement in patients with acute ischemic stroke.