OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Danhong injection combined with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 110 AIS patients (aged 40-80 years, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 3-15) admitted between October 2021 and October 2023. Patients were divided into two groups: the intervention group (n=55) received Danhong injection (40 mL/day for 14 days) plus DAPT (aspirin 100 mg + clopidogrel 75 mg), while the control group (n=55) received DAPT alone. Primary outcomes included neurological function, infarct volume, and inflammatory/hemorheological markers. Safety was also assessed. RESULTS: The intervention group showed greater neurological improvement, with NIHSS scores decreasing from 8.2 to 3.2 compared to 8.5 to 5.1 in the control group (P<
0.002). Functional independence rate was higher in the intervention group (81.8% vs. 54.5%, P=0.002). Infarct volume reduction was more pronounced in the intervention group (5.0 cm CONCLUSION: Danhong injection combined with DAPT significantly enhanced neurological recovery, reduced infarct volume, and modulated systemic inflammation in AIS patients, with a favorable safety profile.