Fibrinolytics
Start with the big picture
Fibrinolytics promote conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, which breaks down fibrin and soluble fibrinogen and can restore vessel patency. The agents include non-fibrin-specific drugs such as streptokinase and urokinase, and fibrin-specific tPA analogs such as alteplase, reteplase, and tenecteplase. Their properties differ, including half-life and administration approach. Clinical use is balanced against serious risks, especially systemic bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage. The lesson also outlines key indications and contraindications, laboratory changes and baseline tests, and interactions with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and NSAIDs. Together, these concepts provide a framework for understanding selection, administration, and safety considerations.
What you'll learn
- Explain how plasmin activation leads to clot breakdown.
- Distinguish non-fibrin-specific agents from fibrin-specific tPA analogs.
- Identify major clinical uses and contraindications for fibrinolytic therapy.
- Describe important adverse effects and laboratory monitoring considerations.
- Recognize interactions and approaches to bleeding reversal.
Continue your study
Work through the complete notes and reinforce the topic with the study tools available in the full lesson.
