Alteplase

Alteplase is a prescription medicine used to dissolve blood clots in patients who have had a heart attack, stroke, or pulmonary embolism. It belongs to a class of drugs known as thrombolytics or clot-busters. Alteplase works quickly to restore normal blood flow and minimize damage caused by clots. It is usually given in emergency situations under the supervision of a medical professional. Prompt administration of this medicine can be life-saving and reduce long-term disability in stroke patients.

Uses of Alteplase

• Treatment of acute ischemic stroke
• Management of heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs)
• Clearing blocked catheters in patients receiving IV treatments

How Alteplase works

Alteplase is a tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). It works by converting plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that dissolves blood clots. This helps restore normal blood flow to affected areas quickly, preventing further damage to tissues.

Benefits of Alteplase

• Rapid clot breakdown in emergencies
• Reduces risk of long-term stroke-related disability
• Restores blood flow to the brain or heart
• Minimizes heart damage during heart attacks
• Clears clots in central venous catheters

How to take Alteplase

Alteplase is administered as an injection or infusion by a trained healthcare provider in a hospital setting. The dosage and duration depend on the condition being treated, the patient’s age, and weight. It must be given as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms for best results.

Type of Dosage Available

• Injection
• Intravenous Infusion

Side effects of Alteplase

• Bleeding at injection site
• Internal bleeding (serious cases)
• Low blood pressure
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Fever or chills
• Irregular heartbeat
• Nausea or vomiting

Safety advice

• Should only be administered in a hospital
• Not suitable for patients with recent surgery or active bleeding
• Inform your doctor if you have bleeding disorders
• Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment
• Report unusual bruising or bleeding immediately

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is Alteplase used for?
A. Alteplase is used to treat strokes, heart attacks, and blood clots in the lungs by dissolving the clots and restoring blood flow.

Q. How quickly should Alteplase be given?
A. It should be given as soon as possible, ideally within 3 to 4.5 hours of stroke symptoms or shortly after a heart attack.

Q. Can Alteplase cause bleeding?
A. Yes, bleeding is the most common side effect and can range from mild to severe. It should be closely monitored by healthcare providers.

Q. Is Alteplase safe during pregnancy?
A. It should only be used if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. Risks and benefits should be evaluated carefully.

Q. Can Alteplase be used for clearing catheters?
A. Yes, in lower doses, Alteplase is used to clear blocked intravenous catheters in medical settings.