[History and current status of medical treatment for stroke]

In the last few decades, medical treatment for stroke has made progress greatly. Effective and safe antihypertensive drug dramatically reduced incidence of hemorrhagic stroke Although intravenous thrombolysis is effective therapeutic strategy, only limited patient can receive the benefit due to narrow time window. There are some ongoing trials to develop safer and more effective thrombolytic therapy. Antithrombotic therapy is important for prevention of recurrent stroke in the acute and chronic phase. Aspirin and warfarin have been used for a long period. Now, we can also choose clopidogrel, cilostazol and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants. Researchers and physicians will continue effort to develop more effective strategy for management of stroke.