A randomized double-blind controlled study of nimodipine in acute cerebral ischemic stroke

A randomized placebo controlled double-blind clinical trial of nimodipine was conducted in 31 patients of acute cerebral infarction. Nimodipine was administered in dosage of 120 mg/day for 28 days. Treatment was begun within 48 hours of ischemic stroke. Diagnosis was confirmed by computed tomographic (CT) scan. Similar number of patients (control) received placebo. Neurological assessment was done at the time of entry into the trial, and after 4 weeks, by using Mathew's scale. After four weeks of treatment with nimodipine or placebo, Mathew's scale score improved significantly (< 0.001) in both groups, but difference in mean score between two groups was insignificant (> 0.05). However, significant difference (< 0.05) was noted in relative change in neurological deficit (mean X-value) of two groups. The nimodipine group had higher value in scores on Mathew's scale. No adverse reaction, was observed in either group. The study suggests a beneficial a effect of nimodipine in acute cerebral ischaemia.