Cerebrolysin and post stroke cognitive decline – Results from a Mexican retrospective cohort

Dr. Martínez presented a study from Mexico addressing acute stroke care and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI)which is one of the most prevalent global post-stroke complications(est. around 50%)Only about 3% of patients with acute ischemic stroke receive reperfusion therapy, with high mortality rates  and functional impairment among survivors. Rehabilitation availability is limited, creating a growing burden of long-term disability and cognitive decline.

To predict post-stroke cognitive outcomes, the team used transcranial Doppler to measure cerebrovascular reactivity via the breath-holding index. Patients with impaired reactivity early after stroke were more likely to develop cognitive impairment over 12 months. About 50% of the study population experienced post-stroke cognitive decline. A sub-analysis of patients treated with Cerebrolysin showed a trend toward cognitive preservation, similar to the findings in the CREGS study. . The treated group demonstrated better MoCA scores over time.

Dr. Martínez concluded that combining neurorestorative treatments like Cerebrolysin with non-pharmacological care may improve long-term outcomes, reduce disability and preserve cognitive function.