US Brand Name: {Activase} ({Alteplase})
Pharmacologic Category:
Thrombolytic agents Other medications in this category: {Reteplase}, {Tenecteplase}, {Streptokinase}, {Urokinase}
Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration
{Acute Ischemic Stroke} (AIS): A single 0.9 mg/kg IV infusion (max dose 90 mg) within 3 hours of symptom onset.
{Acute Myocardial Infarction} (AMI): 100 mg IV infusion over 90 minutes, with 15 mg given as an initial IV bolus.
{Pulmonary Embolism} (PE): 100 mg IV infusion over 2 hours.
{Central Venous Catheter Occlusion}: 2 mg (maximum) in each occluded lumen, instilled and allowed to dwell for up to 120 minutes.
Dosage Forms and Strengths:
Alteplase is available in the form of a lyophilized powder for reconstitution in vials of 50 mg and 100 mg.
Administration Instructions:
Alteplase should be administered by a healthcare professional, following the appropriate reconstitution and dilution procedures. The medication is given as an intravenous infusion or instilled into an occluded catheter.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Bleeding} (frequency varies): Hemorrhage at various sites, including the injection site, gastrointestinal tract, and intracranial region.
{Hypotension} (frequency varies): Low blood pressure, which may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.
{Fever} (3-5%): A temporary increase in body temperature.
{Nausea} and {vomiting} (1-5%): Upset stomach and the urge to vomit.
{Allergic reactions} (<1%): {Rash}, {itching}, or {swelling}, which may require medical attention.
Contraindications:
Active internal bleeding History of recent stroke Intracranial or intraspinal surgery or trauma Severe uncontrolled high blood pressure Known bleeding diathesis
Drug to Drug Interactions:
Bleeding (frequency varies): Hemorrhage at various sites, including the injection site, gastrointestinal tract, and intracranial region.
{Dizziness} (5-12%): A sensation of lightheadedness or feeling faint, which may increase the risk of falls.
{Headache} (3-10%): Pain or discomfort in the head or neck region.
{Cough} (1-10%): A dry, persistent cough resulting from the medication’s effect on the lungs.
{Hypotension} (1-5%): Low blood pressure, which can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting.
{Hyperkalemia} (1-5%): Elevated potassium levels in the blood, which can cause irregular heartbeats or other heart-related issues.
{Angioedema} (<1%): Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause difficulty breathing and requires immediate medical attention.
{Fever} (3-5%): A temporary increase in body temperature.
{Nausea} and {vomiting} (1-5%): Upset stomach and the urge to vomit.
{Allergic reactions} (<1%): {Rash}, {itching}, or {swelling}, which may require medical attention.
Pregnancy:
There is limited data on the use of Alteplase in pregnant women. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breastfeeding:
It is unknown whether Alteplase is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering Alteplase to nursing mothers.
Estimated Price:
As Alteplase is typically administered in a hospital setting for acute conditions, estimating a 30-day supply cost is not applicable. The cost will depend on the dose and frequency, as well as the specific hospital or clinic administering the medication.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.