Transient clinical trials

E-Selectin Nasal Instillation to Prevent Secondary Stroke

This study will determine the maximum safe dose of the experimental drug E-selectin that can be given to stroke patients. E-selectin causes white blood cells called lymphocytes to change so that they prevent clots from forming in the vessels that supply blood to the brain. The drug has been shown to be effective in animal models of stroke. This study will look at the safety of using this experimental drug in nasal instillation form in patients who have had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Patients 45 years of age or older who have had a recent stroke or TIA (30 to 120 days before entering the study) due to a clot forming in a vessel that supplies blood to the brain may be eligible for this study. They must be taking at least one medication to prevent clots, such as coumadin, aspirin, ticlopidine, or others. Candidates will be screened with a physical and neurological examination, blood and urine tests, electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram (ultrasound test of the heart), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive E-selectin at a dose level of 5, 15, or 50 micrograms or a placebo (nasal drops with no active ingredient). They will instill a small, carefully premeasured amount (one dose) of fluid in their nose every other day for 10 days (total of 5 doses). This course of treatment will be repeated two times at 3-week intervals. Patients will be followed at 1 month and 3 months with a neurologic examination and blood and urine tests. They will be contacted by phone, fax, or email in between these two visits.