['In recent years, four specific strategies have emerged which have proven clinical benefit in treating acute stroke. These are the administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), aspirin, management in a stroke care unit (SCU) and the use of hemicraniectomy in patients with severe cerebral oedema.', 'This article discusses current management strategies and evidence with emphasis on the role of the general practitioner in initial diagnosis and hospitalisation.'] Is time brain -- acute stroke management?