The present invention is directed to a method of reducing the occurrence of neuronal cell damage, including death, caused by transient cerebral hypoxia and/or ischemia. The method comprises the steps of: diagnosing a subject having a transient cerebral hypoxic and/or ischemic condition; and within 16 hours after onset of the condition, administering to the subject a neuroprotective amount of a pharmaceutical agent. The pharmaceutical agent is preferably selected from the group consisting of: a central nervous system stimulant (CNSS), monoamine neurotransmitter, monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), or a combination thereof. Preferred agents include amphetamines, methamphetamine, methylphenidate, methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or a combination thereof.
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