Abstract: The invention relates to novel substituted-3-(2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-5-yl)-4-hydroxy-1H-pyrrole-2,5-diones, their analogs and their salts. These compounds are synthesized by methods selected from a number of synthetic routes depending on the particular structure, choice of intermediate or preferred reaction sequence. The compounds are useful for the treatment and prevention of injury to the brain and of edema due to head trauma, stroke (particularly ischemic), arrested breathing, cardiac arrest, Reye's syndrome, cerebral thrombosis, cerebral embolism, cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral tumors, encephalomyelitis, spinal cord injury, hydrocephalus, post-operative brain injury trauma, edema due to cerebral infections and various brain concussions.