Abstract: The present invention provides methods of conferring protection on a population of cells associated with ischemia in a subject following an ischemic event, comprising: (a) providing an estrogen compound; and (b) administering the effective amount of the compound over a course that includes at least one dose within a time that is effectively proximate to the ischemic event, so as to confer protection on the population of cells. Novel methods are provided for the intravenous administration of an estrogen compound. Examples of ischemic events treatable according to the invention are cerebrovascular disease or stroke, subarachnoid subhemorrhage, myocardial infarct, surgery and trauma. A method of treating ischemic damage utilizing non-sex hormones is also provided.

Abstract: A method is provided for conferring neuroprotection on a population of cells in a subject, the method including providing a polycyclic compound having a terminal phenolic group in a structure containing at least a second ring, the compound having a molecular weight of less than 1000 Daltons, the compound not including estrogen compounds including estrogen agonists. The compound may be administered in an effective dose to the population of cells so as to confer neuroprotection. Methods are further provided for treating a neurodegenerative disease in a subject that include providing an effective dose of a formulation containing the compound and administering the dose to the subject.

Abstract: Androgens and their derivates and analogs, such as anabolic agents, are characterized by at least one substituent or substituent grouping with radical trapping properties.