ALTEPLASE RECOMBINANT (tPA) (Activase)

Question 1

ALTEPLASE RECOMBINANT (tPA) (Activase)

Answer 1

Name/Class: ALTEPLASE RECOMBINANT (tPA) (Activase)/Thrombolytic
Description: Recombinant DNA–derived form of human tPA promotes thrombolysis by

forming plasmin. Plasmin, in turn, degrades fibrin and fibrinogen and, ultimately, the clot.

Indications: To thrombolyse in acute myocardial infarction, acute ischemic stroke, and

pulmonary embolism.

Contraindications: Active internal bleeding, suspected aortic dissection, traumatic CPR, recent hemmorhagic

stroke (6 months), intracranial or intraspinal surgery or trauma (2 month), pregnancy, uncontrolled hypertension,

or hypersensitivity to thrombolytics.

Precautions: Recent major surgery, cerebral vascular disease, recent GI or GU bleeding, recent trauma,

hypertension, patient > 75 years, current oral anticoagulants, or hemorrhagic

ophthalmic conditions.