The Xiao-Xu-Ming decoction (XXMD) is clinically used to treat stroke.
21 compounds from XXMD were selected as candidates via reverse molecular docking.
HPLC–MS/MS method was developed to quantify 21 compounds in rat plasma and brain.
Pharmacokinetics was compared between control and cerebral ischemic rats.
Pharmacokinetic behaviors were characterized in cerebral ischemic rats.