Edaravone, a novel potent free radical scavenger for acute ischemic stroke：From laboratory to clinic

Free radical plays a key role in the process of cerebral ischemic injury. It aggravates cell membrane damage through the peroxidation of unsaturated fatty acids, and then results in neuronal death and brain edema. Edaravone, a novel potent free radical scavenger, exerts its neuroprotective effect by inhibiting endothelial injury in cerebral ischemic areas and relieving neuronal damage. It also reduces thrombolytic therapy-induced brain edema and bleeding events after reperfusion. Clinical experiences suggest that the therapeutic time window of edaravone is very wide, and when it combines with thrombolytic therapy, it may reduce stroke mortality and promote the recovery of neurological deficit. This article reviews the course of development of edaravone from laboratory to clinical stage. Key words: edaravone;  ischernic stroke;  neuroprotection;  antioxidant;  free radical scavenger