Tirilazad

Tirilazad is a steroid-based drug that was developed for the treatment of stroke and neurotrauma. It functions as an inhibitor of lipid peroxidation, a process that can lead to cell damage in the brain. Despite promising results in animal studies, clinical trials in humans have not shown significant benefits.

History[edit | edit source]

Tirilazad was developed by Pharmacia & Upjohn, a pharmaceutical company based in the United States. The drug was initially designed to treat ischemic stroke, a condition caused by a blockage in the blood vessels supplying the brain. It was also tested for use in neurotrauma, specifically spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Tirilazad belongs to a class of drugs known as 21-aminosteroids. These drugs are designed to inhibit lipid peroxidation, a chemical process that can lead to cell damage. Lipid peroxidation occurs when free radicals steal electrons from the lipids in cell membranes, resulting in cell damage. By inhibiting this process, Tirilazad was intended to protect brain cells from damage following a stroke or injury.

Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]

Despite promising results in animal studies, clinical trials of Tirilazad in humans have not shown significant benefits. In trials for ischemic stroke, the drug did not improve survival rates or functional outcomes. Similarly, in trials for neurotrauma, Tirilazad did not show a significant benefit in terms of improved neurological function or reduced mortality.

Current Status[edit | edit source]

As of now, Tirilazad is not approved for use in any country. The lack of efficacy in clinical trials has led to its discontinuation. However, research into the potential benefits of 21-aminosteroids and other inhibitors of lipid peroxidation continues.