Streptokinase

Dosage Forms Available

• Streptokinase is available as a lyophilised powder for reconstitution, to be administered via the intravenous route.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• The use of Streptokinase is generally reserved for adult patients.

Contraindications

• Streptokinase is contraindicated in patients with active internal bleeding. It also should not be used in patients who have recently had a cerebrovascular accident, or those who have recently undergone intraspinal or intracranial surgery or trauma. People with intracranial neoplasms, arteriovenous malformations, or aneurysms should avoid this medicine. Also, patients with known bleeding diathesis or severe uncontrolled hypertension should not receive Streptokinase.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Streptokinase can interact with anticoagulants (such as warfarin and heparin), other thrombolytic agents (like alteplase and urokinase), and medicines known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (like ramipril and lisinopril).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Streptokinase increases the risk of bleeding. If serious bleeding occurs, the administration of Streptokinase should be discontinued and appropriate supportive measures initiated.

• As Streptokinase is administered in a hospital setting under medical supervision, the risk of a missed dose is minimal. However, if a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as feasible.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea and vomiting, it might help to take small, frequent meals rather than large ones.

• In case of fever or chills, keeping the body hydrated and resting can help.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Streptokinase has no known effects on the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, due to possible side effects such as dizziness or altered consciousness, caution should be applied if these tasks are necessary during treatment.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is recommended to consult your doctor before using Streptokinase during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of bleeding disorders or those at high risk for bleeding should use Streptokinase with caution. It should also be used with caution in patients with severe uncontrolled hypertension due to the increased risk of bleeding.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• As Streptokinase is used for life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks and blood clot-related disorders, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle is beneficial. This could include consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fats.

• Regular check-ups and monitoring of health status are necessary while using Streptokinase.