Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 14, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Streptase
Pharmacologic Class: Tissue Plasminogen Activator
Uses for streptokinase
Streptokinase is used to dissolve blood clots that have formed in the blood vessels. It is used immediately after symptoms of a heart attack occur to improve patient survival. Streptokinase may also be used to treat blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and in the legs (deep venous thrombosis) .
Streptokinase is also used to dissolve blood clots in tubes (catheters) that are inserted in blood vessels .
Streptokinase is available only with your doctor's prescription .
Before using streptokinase
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For streptokinase, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to streptokinase or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of streptokinase in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established .
Geriatric
No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of streptokinase in geriatric patients .
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving streptokinase, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you a...
