Current and Emerging Acute Therapeutic Strategies for Ischaemic and Haemorrhagic Stroke

Stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted. There are two main types: ischaemic stroke, caused by a blocked artery, and haemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding within or around the brain. This review outlines the pathophysiology and subtypes of both stroke types, discusses current diagnostic approaches, and focuses on established treatments as well as emerging therapeutic strategies. Current treatment for ischaemic stroke includes thrombolytic drugs to dissolve blood clots and mechanical thrombectomy to remove the occlusion. Management of haemorrhagic stroke focuses on controlling the bleeding, reducing intracranial pressure, and preventing secondary brain injury, often requiring neurosurgical intervention. Advanced imaging techniques play a crucial role in distinguishing between stroke types and their subtypes, as accurate diagnosis is essential because inappropriate treatment can have devastating consequences. We also discuss promising emerging therapies, including novel thrombolytic agents, stem cell-based approaches, and neuroprotective drugs aimed at limiting brain injury and improving functional recovery. Finally, we review ongoing clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of these innovative treatments and discuss their potential to improve future stroke management.