Alteplase is a type of fibrinolytic agent-or tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) - this means it is a "clot busting" medication! This drug works by activating an enzyme called plasmin, which aims to dissolve any thrombi in the body. So this is great for any vessel-occluding clots like we'd see in stroke or MI...but one major side effect we have to keep in mind is 🩸 bleeding! That's why we won't give it to clients on other anticoagulants, after recent surgery or trauma, or those who have brain tu

Intravenous alteplase is the standard thrombolytic agent for acute ischemic stroke within 4.5 hours after symptom onset. Reteplase, a recombinant plasminogen activator, is a potential alternative. Research findings are summarized in a new Quick Take video. https://nej.md/3VlxL0e | The New England Journal of Medicine