Alteplase

Dosage Forms Available

• Alteplase is available as a sterile, lyophilised powder, which is used to make a solution for intravenous infusion.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for use in adult patients only.

Contraindications

• Alteplase is contraindicated for individuals with active internal bleeding.

• It should not be used in individuals who have had recent intracranial or intraspinal surgery or trauma.

• It is also contraindicated for individuals with bleeding disorders or severe, uncontrolled high blood pressure.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine can interact with anticoagulants (such as heparin and warfarin), thrombolytics (including streptokinase), and medicines affecting platelet function (such as aspirin, NSAIDs like ibuprofen), dipyridamole (an antiplatelet agent), and GP IIb/IIIa antagonists (like abciximab).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose may lead to severe bleeding complications. If an overdose occurs, it is crucial to stop the infusion immediately and manage the bleeding symptomatically. Monitoring of fibrinogen levels might be required.

• In cases where a dose has been missed during a scheduled treatment, the infusion should be resumed as soon as possible. However, doubling the dose to make up for the missed one is not advisable.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Adjusting the timing of taking other medications may help manage side effects related to interactions.

• Staying hydrated by drinking adequate water may alleviate some mild side effects like nausea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication does not typically affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, individuals experiencing any unusual symptoms that could impair their alertness or coordination should avoid such activities until these effects are thoroughly assessed.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• There is insufficient data on the use of Alteplase in pregnancy and during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals who have recently undergone major surgery, including obstetrical delivery or organ biopsy, should exercise caution when using Alteplase due to an increased risk of bleeding.

• Patients with a history of cholesterol embolism should also be cautious due to the potential exacerbation by this medication.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Individuals undergoing treatment with Alteplase for conditions like myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism should focus on maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while avoiding high-fat and high-sodium foods.

• Maintain adequate hydration to support vascular health and reduce potential side effects like hypotension.

• Regular, moderate physical activity, as advised by a doctor, can help improve cardiovascular health.