Propentofylline and postischemic brain edema: Relation to Na⁺‐K⁺‐ATPase activity

Abstract

Abstract Following the bilateral occlusion of common carotid arteries in gerbil, an increase in water content and sodium/potassium ratio as well as the inhibition of Na + ‐K + ‐ATPase was found. The xanthine derivative propentofylline (HWA 285) [3‐methyl‐1‐(5‐oxohexyl)‐7‐propylxanthine] given either before or after cerebral ischemia attenuated the development or postischemic brain swelling and the increase in sodium/potassium ratio and prevented the postischemic reduction of Na + ‐K + ‐ATPase activity. It is concluded that the action of propentofylline on brain edema during ischemia is mediated aside from other possible mechanism(s), by the influence of the drug on Na + ‐K + ‐ATPase activity.