Retavase

Generic name:reteplase [ RE-te-plase ]
Drug class:Thrombolytics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 16, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Retavase?

Retavase is a thrombolytic (THROM-bo-LIT-ik) drug, sometimes called a "clot-busting" drug. It helps your body produce a substance that dissolves unwanted blood clots.

Retavase is used to improve heart function and prevent congestive heart failure or death in people who have had a heart attack (acute myocardial infarction).

Retavase may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

If possible before you receive Retavase, tell your doctor if you have a brain tumor or aneurysm, high blood pressure, hemophilia or other bleeding disorder, a history of stroke, or if you have recently had a head injury or surgery on your brain or spinal cord.

Before taking this medicine

You should not be treated with Retavase if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• active bleeding inside your body;

• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia;

• a brain tumor or blood vessel disorder;

• a brain aneurysm (dilated blood vessel);

• severe uncontrolled high blood pressure;

• a history of stroke; or

• a recent history of head injury, or surgery on your brain or spinal cord.

If possible before you receive Retavase, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a major surgery, medical trauma, or injury;

• bleeding in your brain, stomach, intestines, or urinary tract;

• a stroke; or

• high blood pressure.

In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers about your health conditions. Make sure any doctor caring for you afterward knows you received Retavase.

If possible before you receive Retavase, tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received this medicine.

How is Retavase given?

Retavase is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

Retavase is usually given in two injections 30 minutes apart.

This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Retavase.