Cilostazol, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, prevents no-reflow and hemorrhage in mice with focal cerebral ischemia

► We examine effect of cilostazol in a mouse model of focal ischemia. ► Cilostazol suppresses rtPA-induced hemorrhage via maintenance of BBB integrity. ► Cilostazol improves focal no-reflow by preserving microvascular patency. ► Cilostazol can be considered a safe and beneficial drug against cerebral ischemia. ► Such pleiotropic effects may explain the effectiveness of CSPS II.