MK-0724

MK-0724 is an investigational small molecule developed by Merck & Co. (MSD) that acts as a selective agonist of the Prostaglandin D2 receptor 1 (DP1). It was primarily evaluated for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, specifically middle cerebral artery (MCA) stroke. The rationale for its use in stroke was based on the neuroprotective and vasodilatory effects associated with DP1 receptor activation, which were hypothesized to improve neurological recovery when administered shortly after the onset of ischemia. A Phase IIa clinical trial (NCT00471042) was conducted in Hungary to assess the safety and efficacy of MK-0724 administered as an intravenous infusion (8 mg/kg/hr) for 7 days, starting within 8 to 36 hours of stroke onset. However, the development of MK-0724 was terminated in 2008, and no further clinical development has been reported.