The mechanisms of efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba extract in acute ischemic stroke: a real-world study.

Abstract

Background and purpose: Although Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) has been shown to be effective in treating acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in several clinical trials, concerns regarding adverse events, such as bleeding, have been raised. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which GBE improves AIS prognosis, particularly its impact on platelet activity, coagulation function, and the potential risk of bleeding.

Methods: This real-world study consecutively enrolled 99 patients: 49 with internal jugular venous stenosis (IJVS) treated with GBE; 33 with AIS treated with GBE and low-dose aspirin; and 17 with AIS treated with low-dose aspirin alone. Plasma platelet aggregation and coagulation status were assessed before and after treatment. Major and minor bleeding events were recorded in the AIS group.

Results: In the IJVS group, GBE specifically inhibited arachidonic acid (AA)-induced, but not ADP-induced, platelet aggregation, along with prolonged thrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). In the AIS group, the combined use of low-dose aspirin and GBE further reduced AA-induced platelet aggregation, mildly prolonged APTT, and was associated with an increased risk of minor bleeding events.

Conclusions: The therapeutic effect of GBE in AIS may, in part, be attributed to its ability to enhance the antiplatelet action of aspirin, particularly in inhibiting AA-induced platelet aggregation. However, the potential for increased bleeding risk warrants further investigation.