Boehringer Ingelheim launches revolutionary stroke treatment in UAE

UAE – Boehringer Ingelheim, a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, has introduced an innovative medication aimed at improving the management of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the UAE.

This new treatment, containing Tenecteplase 25mg as its active ingredient, is set to revolutionize emergency stroke care by providing a significantly faster and more efficient option compared to traditional methods.

This groundbreaking medication is being launched in the UAE for the first time within the India, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (IMETA) region.

Unlike previous treatments that required an administration period of up to one hour, this new therapy can be delivered as a single intravenous bolus in just five to ten seconds.

As a result, emergency teams can now significantly reduce door-to-needle (DTN) and door-in-door-out (DIDO) times, which are critical in managing acute strokes.

Given that stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and a major contributor to long-term disability, the importance of a rapid response cannot be overstated.

Each year in the UAE alone, between 8,000 and 10,000 individuals suffer a stroke—equating to nearly one incident per hour.

This high incidence not only places a considerable strain on patients and their families but also burdens the healthcare system and the economy.

Ischemic strokes occur due to blockages in blood vessels that limit the brain’s supply of oxygen and nutrients, leading to potentially devastating neurological damage.

Early recognition of stroke symptoms—such as sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulties in speaking or understanding speech, blurred vision, imbalance, or an unexplained severe headache—is essential for successful treatment outcomes.

Healthcare professionals emphasize that every minute lost can result in the irreversible loss of millions of brain cells, underscoring the critical need for swift intervention.

The launch event occurred on February 22 during the 5th Dubai Neurology Congress, where over 120 healthcare professionals gathered to discuss the latest advancements in neurology.

 Dr. Suhail Al Rukn, President of the Emirates Neurology Society and a Consultant Neurologist, highlighted the life-saving potential of reducing treatment delays by stating, “Time is brain.”

He further noted that the simplified administration of the new medication could significantly improve patient recovery and minimize long-term disabilities.

Additionally, Ousama Alhaj, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma at Boehringer Ingelheim for the Near East and UAE, emphasized the increasing number of stroke cases in the region and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to developing patient-centered solutions.

Administered at a dose of 0.25mg/kg (up to a maximum of 25mg), this treatment exemplifies Boehringer Ingelheim’s dedication to advancing healthcare through innovation, early detection, and improved emergency care pathways. 

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