Alteplas

Alteplas is a pharmaceutical agent classified as a recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), used primarily in the management of acute thrombotic conditions. It is a bioengineered enzyme that facilitates the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of fibrin clots. By promoting fibrinolysis, alteplas is effective in dissolving blood clots that cause conditions such as ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and pulmonary embolism.

Alteplas is produced using recombinant DNA technology, often involving genetically modified cell lines to generate high-purity preparations. Its administration is typically intravenous, with dosing and duration tailored according to the specific clinical scenario and patient characteristics. Given its potency, treatment with alteplas requires careful patient selection and monitoring for potential adverse effects, notably bleeding complications.

The drug’s therapeutic window and efficacy have been supported by numerous clinical trials, which demonstrate that timely administration of alteplas significantly improves outcomes in eligible patients with ischemic stroke when given within a specified time frame. However, it is contraindicated in cases of hemorrhagic stroke, active bleeding, or known bleeding disorders.

Alteplas is marketed under various brand names and is available in different formulations to accommodate specific treatment protocols. It remains an important agent in acute thrombolytic therapy, with its use guided by current clinical guidelines and protocols to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.