Loberamisal Scores a Rare Win for Stroke Neuroprotection

February 12, 2026  |  International Stroke Conference, New Orleans, LA

A novel drug called loberamisal has delivered a rare breakthrough in stroke neuroprotection, showing significant improvement in patient outcomes in the phase III LAIS trial — the first large neuroprotectant trial to produce positive results.

What the Trial Found

Nearly 1,000 patients with acute ischemic stroke were randomized to receive loberamisal or placebo within 48 hours of symptom onset. At 90 days, 69.7% of patients on loberamisal achieved an excellent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–1), compared to 56.4% on placebo. The drug also reduced rates of depression and anxiety at 90 days, with no significant safety concerns.

Why It's Different

Unlike previous neuroprotectants that failed in clinical trials, loberamisal works on two targets — inhibiting PSD-95 and acting on the α2-GABA receptor — reducing both brain injury and mood disorders in stroke survivors. It was also given much later (up to 48 hours) than prior agents, reaching patients who had missed the window for reperfusion therapy.

Why It Matters

Most stroke patients never receive acute treatments like thrombolysis or thrombectomy — they arrive too late or are ineligible. Loberamisal's wide treatment window could offer something meaningful to this large, underserved population. Experts are calling for larger global trials to confirm the results across diverse populations.

"Having something to offer all patients that come in within 48 hours would be a game changer." — Stroke neurologist, Yale School of Medicine

Source: International Stroke Conference 2026; LAIS Trial. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.