Details

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. Streptokinase may also be used to treat blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and in the legs (deep venous thrombosis). Streptokinase is also used to dissolve blood clots in tubes (catheters) that are inserted in blood vessels. The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of streptokinase. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have bleeding problems or a history of bleeding in any part of the body blood clotting disorder brain tumour high blood pressure or surgery or injury to the brain or spine.

Typical Uses

Streptokinase is an enzyme which works to break up and dissolve blood clots which can block arteries. It is used in the treatment of heart attack or lung blood clots (pulmonary embolism) as well as leg blood clots (deep venous thrombosis-DVT).

Side Effects

Common streptokinase side effects may include nausea, dizziness, low blood pressure or mild fever may occur. It can also cause nerve damage. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop easy bruising, headache, flushing, rapid or abnormal heartbeat, or chest pain.

Drug Interactions

• Streptokinase+abciximab- Using abciximab together with streptokinase can cause you to bleed more easily. You may need a dose adjustment in addition to testing of your prothrombin time.
• Streptokinase+bivalirudin- Using streptokinase together with bivalirudin can cause you to bleed more easily. You may need a dose adjustment in addition to testing of your prothrombin time.
• Streptokinase+dicumarol- Using streptokinase together with dicumarol can cause you to bleed more easily. You may need a dose adjustment in addition to testing of your prothrombin time.
• Streptokinase+heparin- Using heparin together with streptokinase can cause you to bleed more easily. You may need a dose adjustment in addition to testing of your prothrombin time.

Mechanism of action

Streptokinase belongs to a class of drugs called thrombolytic agents. It acts by increasing the levels of an enzyme called plasmin in the blood which is responsible for breakage of the blood clot, thereby dissolving the clot.

Pregnancy Category : C