Streptokinase is a medication used to dissolve blood clots in patients who have experienced certain medical conditions.
How Streptokinase Works
Streptokinase is a naturally occurring enzyme produced by certain types of bacteria. When administered to a patient, it activates the body's natural clot-dissolving system, known as the fibrinolytic system. This process helps break down the fibrin mesh that forms the structure of a blood clot.
Uses of Streptokinase
Streptokinase is primarily used to treat:
- Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack): Streptokinase can help open blocked coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart muscle and reducing damage.
- Pulmonary embolism (PE): This condition occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow. Streptokinase can help dissolve the clot and prevent serious complications.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): This involves a blood clot forming in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Streptokinase can help dissolve the clot and prevent it from traveling to the lungs.
- Stroke: In certain cases, streptokinase can be used to dissolve blood clots in the brain that cause ischemic stroke.
Administration and Considerations
Streptokinase is typically administered intravenously (through a vein). It is important to note that streptokinase can cause side effects, including bleeding, allergic reactions, and even stroke. Therefore, it is only used in specific situations and under careful medical supervision.
Alternatives to Streptokinase
Other medications, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), are also used to dissolve blood clots. tPA is often preferred because it has a faster onset of action and fewer side effects compared to streptokinase.
