Gastrodin as Adjuvant Therapy Improves Neuroprotective Effect in Acute Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials

Introduction

Traditionally, gastrodin extracted from Rhizoma Gastrodiae has been used to treat various neurological diseases. The objective of this systematic review with meta-analysis is to evaluate the potential benefits of gastrodin as an adjuvant therapy for the treatment of acute stroke.

Methods

Relevant literature from multiple medical databases was searched until October 12, 2023, to identify randomised controlled trials investigating the use of gastrodin as an adjuvant therapy for acute stroke treatment. The total response rate and marked improvement rate were defined as >18% and >45% improvement in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, respectively.

Results

A total of 12 randomised controlled trials, including 1 174 stroke patients, were identified. Compared to conventional treatment alone, the combination of gastrodin and conventional treatment significantly improved the total response rate (risk ratio 1.24; 95% CI 1.15–1.34) and marked improvement rate (risk ratio 1.37; 95% CI 1.18–1.59). Adjuvant treatment with gastrodin also resulted in a reduction in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (weighted mean difference [WMD] −3.08 points; 95% CI −3.75 to −2.41), haematoma volume (WMD −3.57 cm³; 95% CI −4.26 to −2.87), and blood neuron-specific enolase level (WMD −3.81 μg/l; 95% CI −6.21 to −1.41), as well as an increase in blood brain-derived neurotrophic factor level (WMD 0.81 ng/ml; 95% CI 0.50–1.12).

Conclusions

Gastrodin, when used as an adjuvant therapy, may yield additional beneficial effects in patients with acute stroke. However, future high-quality trials are necessary to further support this evidence.