Ischemic cerebrovascular disease is one of the most common diseases in Japan. Recent advancements in neuroradiological diagnostic modalities enabled us to make a precise pathophysiological diagnosis with each patient in the acute stage. Moreover, various drugs are available to treat patients on a pathophysiological basis. However, in clinical settings, progressing stroke, seen in 5% to 15% of cerebral infarction, is a major problem that worsens patients' outcomes. Rho kinase inhibitor may be a new option among the various treatment drugs for cerebral ischemia in the acute stage.
