Non-competitive antagonists at the glutamatergic N-methyl D-aspartate receptor significantly reduce the volume of ischaemic cerebral infarction in animals and are potential agents for the treatment of acute stroke in humans. 2. CNS 1102, a novel non-competitive NMDA antagonist, was administered as a 15 min intravenous infusion to healthy male volunteers in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study. This was the first administration to man. 3. Clinically significant sedation, increased mean arterial pressure and pulse rate were seen at doses of 30 micrograms kg-1 and above. Symptoms of sedation and central nervous excitation became unacceptable for conscious individuals at doses of 45 micrograms kg-1 and above. 4. Rapid onset of central nervous system effects after administration is in keeping with rapid distribution of CNS 1102 to brain. Steady state volume of distribution was large (444 l) and terminal elimination half-life from plasma was approximately 4 h. 5. Pharmacokinetic properties are favourable for a potential neuroprotective therapy. The maximum tolerated dose for conscious individuals was 30 micrograms kg-1 given intravenously over 15 min. Further assessment of CNS 1102 should seek methods of drug administration which maximise administered dose with minimal side effects.
