Over the past decade, there has been an explosion in data related to the treatment of patients with acute ischemic stroke. Thrombolytic therapy with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator has revolutionized the approach to stroke treatment. Intra-arterial administration of thrombolytic agents is also being investigated and is now being used on a compassionate basis. Medical management can have a large impact on stroke-related outcomes, even in patients who do not receive thrombolytic therapy.