Effect of nicergoline on platelet aggregation, plasma viscosity and erythrocyte deformability in geriatric patients with cerebral infarction. Preliminary report.

The effects of nicergoline (Sermion) on platelet aggregation, plasma viscosity and erythrocyte deformability were evaluated in 11 geriatric patients with cerebral infarction, 2 men and 9 women (ages 61-78, mean age 71.6). Nicergoline was given orally at a dose of 5 mg 3 times daily after meals for 8 weeks. Hematological variables were determined twice prior to the administration and at 4 and 8 weeks after the administration. The platelet aggregation in vitro was determined by the turbidimetric method and the level of circulating platelet aggregates was determined according to the method of Wu-Hoak. Erythrocyte deformability was determined according to the method based on the examination of passing erythrocytes through a filter containing pores smaller than the undeformed cells. Collagen-, arachidonic acid- and PAF-induced platelet aggregation was decreased after nicergoline administration. Erythrocyte deformability was increased and plasma viscosity was also decreased after the administration. Thus the improvement of platelet aggregation, plasma viscosity and erythrocyte deformability in cerebral infarction may prevent disturbing blood flow and may contribute to prevention of formation and progression of thrombosis and atherosclerosis in geriatric patients with cerebral infarction.