Which medication is commonly used for the acute treatment of ischemic stroke?

The medication commonly used for the acute treatment of ischemic stroke is Tissue Plasminogen Activator (tPA). tPA is a thrombolytic agent that works by dissolving the blood clot obstructing blood flow to the brain. This treatment is critical during the initial hours after symptom onset, as it can significantly reduce the long-term effects of a stroke if administered in a timely manner, ideally within three to four and a half hours of symptom onset.

Other medications listed, such as aspirin, are often used for secondary prevention of stroke or other cardiovascular events, but they are not utilized for the immediate treatment of an ischemic stroke once it has occurred. Atenolol, a beta-blocker, is typically prescribed for hypertension or other heart conditions, and is not indicated for acute ischemic strokes. Warfarin is an anticoagulant generally used for long-term management of conditions that predispose to stroke, such as atrial fibrillation, but it is not suitable for acute treatment in the context of a current ischemic event. Thus, tPA is the only choice that aligns with the urgent need to dissolve clots and restore cerebral blood flow in an acute ischemic stroke situation.