Glibenclamide for the prevention of cerebral edema and hemorrhagic transformation in ischemic stroke

Cerebral edema and hemorrhagic transformation (HT) are the common complications of ischemic stroke. Ischemic cerebral edema is the primary cause of death in patients with large infarction. The sulfonylurea receptor 1 (Sur1) transient receptor potential M4 (Trpm4) channel plays an important role in focal cerebral ischemia. Both animal experiment and clinical studies have shown that the Sur1 selective inhibitor glibenclamide provides neuroprotection for ischemic stroke, including infarct volume reduction and improvement of neurological function, especially in attenuating cerebral edema and reducing the incidence of HT. This article reviews the advances in research on glibenclamide for the prevention of cerebral edema and HT in patients with ischemic stroke. Key words: Stroke; Brain Ischemia; Brain Edema; Cerebral Hemorrhage; Glyburide; Neuroprotective Agents