Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 14, 2026

Author Spotlight: Establishing a Reliable Distal MCA Occlusion Model in Mice for Stroke Research
Published on: December 15, 2023
Amphetamine and other pharmacological agents in human and animal studies of recovery from stroke
D Walker-Batson1, J Mehta1, P Smith2
1The Stroke Center-Dallas, T. Boone Pickens Institute of Health Sciences, Texas Woman's University, 5500 Southwestern Medical Avenue, Dallas, TX 75235, United States.
Abstract:
Neuromodulation with pharmacological agents, including drugs of abuse such as amphetamine, when paired with behavioral experience, has been shown to positively modify outcomes in animal models of stroke. A number of clinical studies have tested the efficacy of a variety of drugs to enhance recovery of language deficit post-stroke. The purpose of this paper is to: (1) present pertinent animal studies supporting the use of dextro-amphetamine sulfate (AMPH) to enhance recovery after experimental lesions with emphasis on the importance of learning dependent activity for lasting recovery; (2) briefly review neuropharmacological explorations in the treatment of aphasia; (3) present a pilot study in aphasia exploring a drug combination of AMPH and donepezil hydrochloride paired with behavioral treatment to facilitate recovery; and (4) conclude with comments regarding the role of adjunctive pharmacotherapy in the rehabilitation of aphasia, particularly AMPH.
Related Concept Videos
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists
Stimulants
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena

