About alteplase
Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator
Used for
- Dissolving clots in certain heart attacks
- Treating acute ischaemic stroke
- Treating high-risk pulmonary embolism
- Clearing blocked central venous catheters
Usual adult dose
Dose depends on the condition and body weight; commonly 100 mg over 2 hours for pulmonary embolism, or 0.9 mg/kg (maximum 90 mg) for stroke.
Usual dose in children
Used in selected children under specialist protocols; dose depends on the condition and weight.
Common side effects
- Bleeding, including serious internal or brain bleeding
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low blood pressure
- Allergic reactions
Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening bleeding
- Avoid or use cautiously with recent surgery, injury, or bleeding disorders
- Stroke treatment requires brain imaging and strict eligibility criteria
- Administer only under close medical supervision
Pregnancy
Use only when clearly necessary; potential benefits must outweigh bleeding risks.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; specialist assessment is needed, especially after urgent treatment.
Interactions
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medicines increase bleeding risk
- Other medicines that affect clotting increase bleeding risk
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.