Streptase

How does it work?

Streptokinase belongs to a group of medicines known as fibrinolytics. It works by stimulating extra production of a substance produced naturally by the body called plasmin. Plasmin is produced in the blood to break down the major constituent of blood clots (fibrin), therefore dissolving clots once they have fullfilled their purpose in stopping bleeding. Extra production of plasmin caused by streptokinase breaks down unwanted blood clots, for example, in the lungs (pulmonary embolism). It is given intravenously as soon as possible after the onset of a heart attack to dissolve clots in the arteries of the heart wall. This reduces the amount of damage to the heart muscle.

What is it used for?

The period immediately following a heart attack (acute phase - myocardial infarction)

Warning!

This medicine 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.

Use with caution in

Bacterial infection of the heart valves and the lining surrounding the heart (bacterial endocarditis)

Current anticoagulation treatment

Disease of the blood vessels in and around the brain

Inflammation of pancreas

Lung disease

Moderate to severe high blood pressure

Moderate to severely decreased kidney function

Recent bleeding

Recent minor trauma, including biopsies, intrmuscular injections, cardiac massage, puncture of major vessels.

Retinopathy due to bleeding

Severe liver disease

This medication should be avoided after surgery

Not to be used in

Active bleeding

Allergic reaction to one of the active ingredients

Anistreplase or streptokinase should not be administered to patients who have experienced severe allergic reactions to either medicine.

Blood clotting disorders

Brain tumour

Head injury

History of stroke

Lung disease

Peptic ulcers

Uncontrolled high blood pressure

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers. Discuss this with your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Allergic reaction to active ingredient

Abnormal heart beats (arrhythmias)

Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Back pain

An extreme allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Inflammation of the front parts of the eye (uveitis)

Chest pain (angina)

Increased tendency to bleed

Nausea and vomiting

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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