The Akt/GSK-3β pathway mediates flurbiprofen-induced neuroprotection against focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

► Ischemia/reperfusion injury exacerbates neuronal apoptosis. ► Flurbiprofen protects the brain by reducing apoptosis. ► Flurbiprofen increased the expression of Bcl-2 protein and the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax. ► Flurbiprofen activates the Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway.