Streptase

What is it?

A fibrinolytic preparation available as powder in vials for reconstitution and injection containing 250,000 units or 750,000 units of streptokinase. AIso, STREPTASE 1.5 MEGAUNITS, as powder in vials for reconstitution and injection containing 1, 500,000 units streptokinase.

Medical Uses

Streptase, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, blockage of peripheral arteries, thrombosis of retinal blood vessels. Streptase 1.5 Mega Units, acute heart attack.

Dosage

Streptase, initial dose of 250,000 units by intravenous infusion, then 100,000 units by infusion per hour for 24 to 72 hours depending upon response. Also, consult manufacturer's literature. Streptase 1.5 Mega Units, single dose over 1 hour by intravenous infusion of 1.5 million units, given as soon as possible afterMI, accompanied by oral doses of 150mg aspirin each day for at least 4 weeks. Children, Streptase only, initial dose adjusted according to condition, body weight then 20 units per ml of blood volume every hour. Also, consult manufacturer's literature.

Special Care

Heart disorders; blood tests and anticoagulant therapy are Also, required - consult manufacturer's literature. Pericarditis must be ruled out before treatment starts.

Avoid Use

Pregnancy, patients who have received streptokinase treatment in last 5 days to 12 months, those with allergy to streptokinase. Recent bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, septic thrombotic disease, haemorrhage with dialysis, serious liver or kidney damage, brain tumour, lung disease, severe high blood pressure, inflammation and bacterial infection of endocardium, infections caused by streptococci, serious bronchitis, pancreatitis, severe diabetes. Having recently had surgery, head injury or history of bleeding.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Drugs affecting blood platelets, anticoagulants.

Known Side Effects

Feverish reactions, heart arrhythmias, low blood pressure, pulmonary oedema, minor bleeding at needle site, serious haemorrhage, embolism caused by cholesterol. In rare cases, anaphylaxis.