Alteplase - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Information about Alteplase

Generic Name : Alteplase
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Alteplase are provided here.

Pronunciation : AL-teh-PLACE

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Alteplase, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.

You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.

ICD Code : Y43.6 Therapeutic Classification : Enzymes

Trade Names/Brand Names of Alteplase

India :

Actilyse Vial.

International :

Cathflo Activase

Why is Alteplase Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an enzyme (tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)), prescribed for heart attack, stroke, and pulmonary embolism. It helps to break down unwanted blood clots.

When should Alteplase not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with recent surgery or trauma, bleeding within the brain, uncontrolled high blood pressure, clotting defects, aneurysm or tumor in brain and active bleeding.

What is the dosage of Alteplase?

Adult: Acute massive pulmonary embolism- Total dose: 100 mg (not >1.5 mg/kg for patients weighing <65 kg). 10 mg as bolus, followed by infusion of the remainder dose over 2 hour.
Acute stroke: 0.9 mg/kg (not more than 90 mg) IV over 1 hour. The first 10% should be administered in 1 minute.
Heart attack: For patients weighing > 67 kg, 15 mg iv, followed by 50 mg over the next half an hour, and then 35 mg over the next 1 hour. The total dose of 100 mg may also be administered over 3 hours.

How should Alteplase be taken?

It comes as a solution for injection, to be injected by a healthcare provider into the vein.

What are the side effects of Alteplase?

Potentially Fatal- Bleeding in the brain.
Heart - Heart failure, abnormal heart rhythm and heart arrest.
Central Nervous System - Cerebral edema (increased fluid content in the brain).
Miscellaneous- Allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure and fever.

What are the other precautions for Alteplase?

Caution needed when administered with other drugs such as heparin and aspirin.

What are the storage conditions for Alteplase?

Injection: Store it at room temperature (<30°C) or under refrigeration.