Alteplase
Alteplase
Alteplase (pronounced: al-TEP-lase) is a thrombolytic agent, specifically a recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA). It is used in medicine to break down blood clots in conditions such as acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), acute ischemic stroke, and pulmonary embolism.
Etymology
The term "Alteplase" is derived from the words "Alte" and "plase". "Alte" is a prefix used in pharmacology to denote a modified version of a drug, while "plase" is a suffix used to denote enzymes that break down proteins, in this case, plasminogen.
Usage
Alteplase is used to dissolve blood clots that have formed in the blood vessels. It is often used in emergency situations, such as during a heart attack or stroke, to quickly restore blood flow to the affected area. Alteplase works by converting plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme that breaks down clots.
Related Terms
- Thrombolysis: The process of breaking down blood clots in the body.
- Plasminogen: A protein in the blood that is converted into plasmin by alteplase.
- Plasmin: An enzyme that breaks down blood clots.
- Recombinant DNA technology: The technology used to create alteplase, which involves combining DNA from different sources.
Side Effects
Like all medications, alteplase can cause side effects. The most serious potential side effect is bleeding, including internal bleeding. Other possible side effects include allergic reactions, low blood pressure, and irregular heart rhythms.
Precautions
Before using alteplase, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, current medications, and medical conditions. Alteplase should not be used in patients with active internal bleeding or a history of stroke.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alteplase
- Wikipedia's article - Alteplase
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