Ongoing Clinical Trials for Vertebrobasilar Stroke
This article provides information about ongoing clinical trials for vertebrobasilar stroke, a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot blocks the basilar artery at the base of the brain. Currently, there is 1 clinical trial investigating new treatment approaches for patients experiencing this type of stroke, comparing different clot-dissolving medications to improve recovery outcomes.
Clinical trial locations
Study on Tenecteplase and Alteplase for Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke Due to Basilar Artery Blockage
This clinical trial focuses on treating acute ischemic stroke caused by a blockage in the basilar artery, a major blood vessel at the base of the brain. The study compares two clot-dissolving medications to determine which provides better recovery outcomes for patients.
Who can participate:
- Adults aged 18 years or older
- Patients experiencing symptoms of stroke due to basilar artery blockage within 24 hours of symptom onset or when last known to be well
- The blockage must be confirmed through CT or MR angiography imaging
- Patients must have been able to function independently or with minimal help before the stroke (premorbid mRS ≤3)
- Affiliation with the French social security system is required
- Written informed consent must be provided by the patient or their representative
Who cannot participate:
- Patients who recently had major surgery or serious injury
- Those with bleeding disorders or a history of brain hemorrhage from a previous stroke
- Patients currently taking blood-thinning medications
- Those with severe liver or kidney disease
- Patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure despite treatment
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Patients with known allergies to the study medications
- Those with other medical conditions deemed unsafe by study doctors
Trial focus and goals:
The study aims to determine whether Tenecteplase is more effective than Alteplase or standard care in helping patients recover from stroke caused by basilar artery blockage. Tenecteplase can be given within 24 hours of stroke symptoms, while Alteplase must be administered within 4.5 hours. Some patients may also undergo thrombectomy, a procedure to physically remove the blood clot.
Patients are monitored for up to 90 days to assess their recovery using the Modified Rankin Scale, which measures disability and the ability to perform daily activities. The study evaluates whether patients can return to normal activities or experience minimal disability after treatment. Researchers also track early improvement in symptoms and any complications that may arise. Quality of life is assessed at 3 and 12 months after treatment.
Investigational drugs:
- Tenecteplase: A thrombolytic medication given intravenously at a dose of 0.25 mg per kg of body weight within 24 hours of symptom onset. It works by breaking down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation, to restore blood flow to the brain.
- Alteplase: Another clot-dissolving medication administered at a dose of 0.9 mg per kg of body weight within 4.5 hours of stroke onset. The trial compares its effectiveness with Tenecteplase in improving patient outcomes.
- Thrombectomy: A medical procedure used in combination with medications to physically remove blood clots from the blocked artery.
Summary
Currently, there is one ongoing clinical trial for vertebrobasilar stroke, taking place in France. This study represents an important effort to improve treatment options for patients experiencing this life-threatening condition. The trial focuses on comparing two clot-dissolving medications, Tenecteplase and Alteplase, with particular attention to extending the treatment window for Tenecteplase to 24 hours compared to the shorter 4.5-hour window for Alteplase.
The research emphasizes the importance of early intervention while exploring whether a longer treatment window can benefit more patients who may not reach medical care within the traditional time frame. The combination of medication therapy with thrombectomy procedures reflects a comprehensive approach to restoring blood flow and minimizing brain damage. The findings from this trial could significantly impact future treatment protocols for basilar artery occlusion and help more patients achieve better recovery outcomes with reduced disability.