The present invention provides compositions and methods for prevention and
prophylaxis of neurological diseases accompanied by neuronal death. The
invention includes synthesis of 5-benzylamino salicylic acid (BAS) and
its derivatives. BAS and its derivatives protect cortical neurons from
toxic insults by N-methyl-D-aspartate, Zn.sup.2+, and reactive oxygen
species. Thus, the present invention provides compositions and methods
for treating stroke, traumatic brain and spinal cord injury, epilepsy,
and neurodegenerative diseases that are accompanied by severe neuronal
loss via excitotoxicity, Zn.sup.2+ neurotoxicity, and free radical
neurotoxicity.