US Brand Name:

{Retavase} ({Reteplase})

Pharmacologic Category:

{Thrombolytic Agent} Other medications in the same category: {Alteplase} (Activase), {Tenecteplase} (TNKase), {Urokinase} (Abbokinase)

Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration

{Acute Myocardial Infarction} (AMI) – Reteplase is used for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) to dissolve blood clots and improve blood flow. The dose for AMI is two 10-unit intravenous bolus injections given 30 minutes apart.

Dosage Forms and Strengths:

Reteplase is available as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution in single-use vials containing 10 units of reteplase per vial.

Administration Instructions:

Reteplase should be administered intravenously as two bolus injections given 30 minutes apart. The medication should be reconstituted with sterile water for injection and administered through an IV line.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:

{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} (less than 1%): Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause difficulty breathing and requires immediate medical attention.
{Bleeding} (frequency varies): Hemorrhage at various sites, including the injection site, gastrointestinal tract, and intracranial region.
{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 stroke Recent brain or spinal surgery Severe uncontrolled high blood pressure Known bleeding disorders

Drug to Drug Interactions:

{Anticoagulants} (e.g., {warfarin} [Coumadin], {heparin})
{Antiplatelet agents} (e.g., {aspirin}, {clopidogrel} [Plavix])
{Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)} (e.g., {ibuprofen} [Advil], {naproxen} [Aleve])

Pregnancy:

There is limited data on the use of {reteplase} during pregnancy. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breastfeeding:

It is not known whether {reteplase} is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering {reteplase} to a nursing woman.

Estimated Price:

{Reteplase} is not intended for chronic use and is typically administered in a hospital setting during a heart attack. As a result, the cost for a 30-day supply is not applicable. Please consult with your healthcare provider for specific pricing information.

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.