What is the use of streptokinase?
Streptokinase is used to dissolve blood clots that have formed in the blood vessels. It is used immediately after symptoms of a heart attack occur to improve patient survival. This medicine may also be used to treat blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and in the legs (deep venous thrombosis) .
How is streptokinase given?
The adult dose of streptokinase for AMI is 1.5 million U in 50 mL of 5% dextrose in water (D5W) given IV over 60 minutes. Allergic reactions force the termination of many infusions before a therapeutic dose can be administered.
Is streptokinase still used?
Currently, despite the wide use of tissue plasminogen activator in developed nations, streptokinase remains essential to the management of acute myocardial infarction in developing nations.
What is the most important complication of streptokinase therapy?
The hemorrhagic stroke as the most serious ADR of streptokinase was documented in three patients.
How much does streptokinase cost?
The Red Book average wholesale price of 1.5 million units of streptokinase was $320; the price of 100 mg of t-PA was $2,750.
Why is streptokinase prescribed only once in a lifetime?
As streptokinase is a bacterial product, the body has the ability to build up an immunity to it. Therefore, it is recommended that this medication should not be used again after four days from the first administration, as it may not be as effective and can also cause an allergic reaction.
When should streptokinase be administered?
Streptokinase treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after thrombotic event onset, preferably within 7 days. The loading dose is recommended to neutralize any anti-streptokinase antibodies which may be present.
How does streptokinase dissolve the clot?
Plasmin is produced in the blood to break down fibrin, the major constituent of blood thrombi, thereby dissolving clots once they have fulfilled their purpose of stopping bleeding. Extra production of plasmin caused by streptokinase breaks down unwanted blood clots, for example, in the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
What is the antidote for streptokinase?
Drugs that can reverse effects of streptokinase include aminocaproic acid, aprotinin, and tranexamic acid.
Are thrombolytics expensive?
Thrombolytic therapy reduces early mortality, preserves left ventricular function and improves long term prognosis of acute myocardial infarction. However it is relatively expensive and increasing use will have considerable financial consequences.