Boehringer Ingelheim Launches Fast-acting Stroke Medication in the UAE, Reducing Treatment Administration to Five Seconds
Administered as a single IV bolus over a period of five to ten seconds, the treatment offers a significant improvement over regular one-hour-long treatments.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – February 2025: Boehringer Ingelheim, a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, has launched a new acute ischemic stroke (AIS) medication with active ingredient Tenecteplase 25mg to enhance emergency stroke treatment in the UAE, offering a faster and more effective treatment option for emergency stroke care.
Launched in the UAE for the first time across the India, Middle East, Turkey and Africa region, the new medication can be delivered over five to ten seconds, compared to the previous treatments requiring a one-hour administration process. This simplified and rapid approach facilitates faster treatment administration in emergency settings, reducing both door-to-needle (DTN) times and door-in-door-out (DIDO) times. This can improve patient recovery outcomes and minimize long-term neurological deficits associated with stroke [i] .
Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally and a major contributor to disability, thereby imposing significant burdens on both patients and the economy [ii] . Many survivors face long-term disabilities, with up to 50% being chronically disabled [iii] . In the UAE, between 8,000 to 10,000 individuals suffer from a stroke each year, which amounts to one case every hour [iv] . Ischemic strokes occur when there is a blockage in a blood vessel, resulting in reduced blood supply to the brain [v] . Early recognition of symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. Common signs include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body; confusion or trouble speaking; difficulty seeing in one or both eyes; dizziness or loss of balance; and a severe headache with no known cause [vi] .
The new medication was launched on 22 February during the 5th Dubai Neurology Congress, which brought together over 120 healthcare professionals from the UAE. Dr. Suhail Al Rukn, President of the Emirates Neurology Society and Consultant Neurologist highlighted the importance of time efficiency in stroke care. 'Time is brain,' Dr. Al Rukn said. 'Reducing the time between symptoms onset and treatment is crucial in saving lives and preserving brain function [vii] . For every minute that treatment is delayed, millions of brain cells are lost [viii] . Seeking immediate medical care can therefore greatly improve outcomes and minimize the risk of long-term disability. This new treatment offers a major leap forward by minimizing delays and simplifying the administration process, providing an opportunity to improve outcomes for stroke patients in the UAE.'
Ousama Alhaj, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma, Boehringer Ingelheim in the Near East and UAE added: 'The UAE, like many other countries around the world, faces a growing incidence of stroke cases each year [ix] , making timely treatment a priority. This new medication not only improves the efficiency of care delivery but also enhances the overall healthcare journey for patients. At Boehringer Ingelheim, we are committed to developing patient-centered health solutions that improve survival rates and long-term outcomes for stroke patients. We also remain committed to working closely with healthcare stakeholders to ensure these medications are accessible to those who need them.'
Administered at a dose of 0.25mg/kg (up to a maximum of 25mg) as a single intravenous bolus, the new treatment is now available in the UAE and underscores Boehringer Ingelheim's ongoing dedication to patient-centered innovation in healthcare, with a focus on early detection, prevention, and treatment. The company continues to strengthen its presence in the UAE by providing advanced medical solutions that address the needs of healthcare professionals and patients alike.
About Boehringer Ingelheim:
Boehringer Ingelheim is working on breakthrough therapies that improve the lives of humans and animals. As a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, the company creates value through innovation in areas of high unmet medical need. Founded in 1885 and family-owned ever since, Boehringer Ingelheim takes a long-term perspective. Around 52,000 employees serve more than 130 markets in the three business areas, Human Pharma, Animal Health, and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing.
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