Features of the influence of Mexidol on the functional state of the central nervous system in patients who have suffered a stroke

Authors:
V.V. Kuznetsov, F.V. Yurchenko

Institute of Gerontology of AMNs of Ukraine, Kyiv

Place of publication:
JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY AND PSYCHIATRY, 6, 2012

Abstract:
Stroke is a leading cause of death and primary disability in the cerebrovascular disease population. In the acute phase of stroke, treatment focuses on correcting impaired bodily functions and maintaining the viability of nervous tissue. During the recovery period, medications that stimulate neurotrophic and reparative processes are used, and secondary stroke prevention is implemented. Cerebral ischemia is a multifactorial pathological process that includes decreased energy production with impaired active ion transport across cell membranes, excessive accumulation of excitatory mediators in brain structures, increased levels of ionized calcium in neurons, hyperproduction of free radicals, and activation of oxidative stress. To correct these changes, medications with antihypoxic and antioxidant properties, including Mexidol (2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate), are traditionally used. Mexidol improves the metabolism of nervous tissue; it is also known to affect the rheological properties of blood, reduce platelet aggregation, and have a hypolipidemic effect.