NIMODIPINE IN ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE - RESULTS OF THE NIMODIPINE GERMAN-AUSTRIAN STROKE TRIAL

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of nimodipine given to 482 patients within 48 h after acute ischemic stroke. Nimodipine was given orally 120 mg daily for 21 days, concomitant hemodilution was allowed. The Mathew scale and Barthel index scores monitored neurological and functional deficits. Three hundred and fifty-six patients were considered eligible for analysis of efficacy. Intention-to-treat analysis and analysis of efficacy in all eligible patients did not show a significant difference between nimodipine and placebo. In the post hoc defined subgroup with more severe strokes (initial Mathew score less than or equal to 65) the nimodipine-treated patients did significantly better compared to the placebo group. The difference seemed more marked in women even though they were on average 5 years older than the men. No important side effects attributable to nimodipine were noted.