Clinical possibilities of dipyridamole in neurological practice

Cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and its chronic forms are among the most common pathologies in neurological and general medical practice. The high frequency of comorbid conditions and diseases, particularly hypertension, diabetes, lipid metabolism disorders, metabolic syndrome, and others, which contribute to the development of chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI), increases the risk of stroke and dementia – threatening, disabling complications, making chronic cerebral ischemia a pressing medical and social problem. Despite the variety of subjective symptoms of CI, cognitive impairment is considered an early and reliable manifestation of the disease. In clinical practice, one disease often masks another, misdiagnosis, and sometimes overdiagnosis contribute to the loss of valuable time and the chronicity of the disease. Timely diagnosis and adequate pathogenetic therapy aimed at improving cerebral microcirculation, optimizing neuronal metabolism, and providing neuroprotection reduce the risk of developing major complications of cerebrovascular diseases and improve the quality of life of both patients and their families. Treatment for patients with CCI includes correcting stroke risk factors, normalizing blood pressure, lowering blood cholesterol levels, and administering antithrombotic and cognitive-promoting medications. According to research data, dipyridamole, which has antiplatelet, vasotropic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, has been used successfully in CCI. With dipyridamole use, patients with CCI experience a regression in the severity of neuropsychiatric disorders and an improvement in overall well-being, as confirmed by the presented clinical case. Non-pharmacological methods for maintaining and improving cognitive function are also of great importance.