Indicated for: thrombolysis; myocardial infarction; ischemic stroke
Route of administration: injectable / infusion
Substance: alteplase (thrombolytic)
ATC: B01AD02 (Blood and blood forming organs | Antithrombotic agents | Enzymes)
Alteplase is a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots that cause acute ischemic strokes, acute myocardial infarctions, or severe pulmonary embolisms. It is a recombinant form of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), an enzyme that converts plasminogen into plasmin, a substance that breaks down fibrin in clots.
Alteplase is administered intravenously, usually within the first few hours of symptom onset, to maximize its effectiveness. Timing is critical, as its efficacy decreases significantly after a certain period.
Side effects may include bleeding, including intracranial hemorrhage, allergic reactions, or hypotension. For this reason, the use of alteplase requires careful risk-benefit assessment and continuous monitoring during administration.
Patients must be evaluated for contraindications, such as a history of recent bleeding, major surgery, or uncontrolled hypertension. Alteplase is a life-saving medication, but its use must be strictly supervised by specialized medical personnel.