The Particulars: Currently, the only treatment to relieve swelling of the brain caused by a severe ischemic stroke is craniotomy. A novel intravenous formulation of glyburide (RP-1127), a diabetes drug, may prevent such swelling.
Data Breakdown: For a study, 10 patients at risk for malignant infarction because of a severe ischemic stroke received RP-1127, followed by continuous infusion for 72 hours. Rates for malignant edema, 30-day mortality, and disability were significantly less than those observed in previous research. No serious side effects were attributed to the drug.
Take Home Pearl: RP-1127, a novel intravenous diabetes drug, appears to significantly decrease the rate of deadly brain swelling in patients with severe ischemic stroke.
