STPASE INJECTIOIN
STREPTOKINASE
What it does
Streptokinase is a medication used to dissolve blood clots in certain medical conditions.
Commonly used for: heart attack (myocardial infarction), pulmonary embolism (lung blood clots), deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:28:20 · updated 2026-07-26 09:27:31
About this medicine
Streptokinase is a medication used to dissolve blood clots in certain medical conditions.
What it treats
- heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- pulmonary embolism (lung blood clots)
- deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
How it works
Streptokinase helps break down clots by activating the body's natural clot-dissolving system.
Who it's for
This medication is typically used for adults experiencing severe blood clot-related issues.
Cautions
- • Avoid using with other medications that thin the blood.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Streptokinase
BNF-referencedStreptokinase is a thrombolytic agent derived from streptococci bacteria, used primarily to dissolve blood clots in various medical conditions, including acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, and certain types of thrombosis. It acts by converting plasminogen to plasmin, which then breaks down fibrin, the main component of blood clots. Streptokinase is typically administered intravenously under controlled conditions, particularly in emergency settings, to restore blood flow in occluded vessels.
Indications
- Acute myocardial infarction
- Pulmonary embolism
- Deep-vein thrombosis
- Central retinal venous or arterial thrombosis
- Acute ischaemic stroke (under specialist supervision)
Dosage
Children: For children aged 12–17 years: Initially 250
Adults: Initially 10 mg by intravenous injection, followed by 90 mg as an intravenous infusion over 2 hours, with a maximum dose of 1.5 mg/kg for patients weighing less than 65 kg.
Mechanism of action
Streptokinase binds to plasminogen, converting it to plasmin, an enzyme that degrades fibrin in blood clots. This process enhances the fibrinolytic activity, leading to the dissolution of thrombi and restoration of blood flow. Streptokinase does not have a direct effect on the coagulation cascade but rather facilitates the natural fibrinolytic process.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of streptokinase include its ability to reduce the size of thrombi and restore blood flow in vessels occluded by clots. Its efficacy is influenced by the timing of administration, with earlier treatment correlating with better outcomes. The agent's activity is also dependent on the presence of plasminogen and requires the formation of a streptokinase-plasminogen complex to initiate fibrinolysis.
Pharmacokinetics
Streptokinase is administered intravenously, leading to rapid distribution in the bloodstream. Its half-life is approximately 23 minutes, and it is mainly cleared through the reticuloendothelial system. The enzyme's activity diminishes rapidly after administration, necessitating careful monitoring and potentially repeated dosing. Individual patient factors, such as renal function, can affect the pharmacokinetics of streptokinase.
Contra-indications
- Recent delivery
- Cavernous pulmonary disease
- Occlusive peripheral arterial disease
- Severe cerebrovascular disease
- Recent severe stroke
- Septic thrombotic disease
- Atrial fibrillation
- Mitral valve defect
Adverse effects
- Arrhythmias
- Asthenia
- Diarrhoea
- Epigastric pain
- Headache
- Malaise
- Pain
- Brain oedema (caused by reperfusion)
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with renal failure and those at risk of bleeding
Pregnancy
Manufacturer advises caution; no specific data available.
Breast-feeding
Manufacturer advises avoiding use; no information available.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator (2 to 8 degrees Celsius). Protect from light.
Formulations
- Powder for solution for injection
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.