A pilot study of drug-induced hypertension for treatment of acute stroke

The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether the use of induced hypertension in acute stroke is feasible and associated with neurologic improvement. Phenylephrine was used to raise the systolic blood pressure in patients with acute stroke by 20%, not to exceed 200 mmHg. Of 13 patients treated, 7 improved by 2 points on the NIH Stroke Scale. No systemic or neurologic complications were seen. The authors conclude that induced hypertension in acute stroke is feasible and likely safe and can improve the neurologic examination in some patients.