Clinical Efficacy of Piracetam in the Management of Acute Stroke and Post-Stroke Sequelae: An Expert Panel Review and Opinion

Stroke is a major cause of death worldwide. Prompt treatment and decision-making is essential for good outcomes. The two major therapeutic approaches for acute ischemic stroke are thrombolytics and neuroprotectants. Piracetam, a nootropic drug aims to increase cerebral blood flow, enhance oxygen extraction, restore membrane fluidity and modulate neurotransmission. Likewise, citicoline has been shown to positively influence cerebral plasticity and neurorepair processes. The present article aims to offer insights on the current management of acute stroke and to position piracetam and its combination with citicoline in the management of acute stroke and post-stroke sequelae based on an expert panel discussion.