Repurposing metformin: A potential off-label indication for ischaemic stroke?

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pharmacology
• Drug Repurposing

Background:

• Ischemic stroke is a major global cause of mortality and long-term disability.
• Current treatments like tissue plasminogen activator have limited therapeutic windows.
• Post-stroke rehabilitation offers benefits but lacks promptness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the potential of repurposing metformin for ischemic stroke treatment.
• To compile and analyze data from preclinical and clinical trials.
• To address discrepancies and propose solutions for metformin's use in stroke.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of preclinical studies.
• Analysis of clinical trial data.
• Evaluation of metformin's preventive and therapeutic effects in stroke.

Main Results:

• Metformin has been extensively researched for stroke over the past decade.
• Evidence suggests potential benefits in both preventing and treating ischemic stroke.
• Discrepancies in current data require clarification.

Conclusions:

• Drug repurposing, specifically with metformin, presents a promising avenue for expanding ischemic stroke therapeutic options.
• Further research is needed to clarify discrepancies and optimize metformin's application.
• Metformin could offer a valuable addition to stroke management strategies.