Alteplase

Genentech | Alteplase (Medication)

Desc:

Alteplase is used for restoring function to central venous access devices that have become clogged with clotted blood. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Alteplase is a tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). It works by helping to break down unwanted blood clots. It is indicated to use for management of acute myocardial infarction, acute ischemic stroke and for lysis of acute pulmonary emboli. ...

Side Effect:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. When used in small doses, no common side effects have been reported with this product.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); black or bloody stools; bloody vomit; calf pain or tenderness; changes in vision; chest pain; chills; coughing up blood; difficulty breathing or sudden shortness of breath; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever; one-sided weakness; redness, swelling, or pain at the catheter site; severe bleeding; severe stomach pain; speech problems or changes; unusual or easy bleeding or bruising. ...

Precaution:

It is recommended that you do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Alteplase. Using Alteplase alone, with certain other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.

Be sure you know why the catheter is not functioning before using Alteplase. If the catheter is not functioning due to a reason other than clotted blood, contact your doctor before using Alteplase. If redness, swelling, or pain develops at the catheter site, contact your doctor immediately.

Alteplase may reduce the number of cells in your blood that help your blood clot (platelets). To prevent bleeding, avoid situations in which bruising or injury may occur. Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, blood in stools, or dark, tarry stools to your doctor.

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking warfarin or aspirin. ...