Streptokinase belongs to the therapeutic class of fibrinolytic agents.

Streptokinase is used in the treatment of several medical conditions. It is a thrombolytic agent to dissolve blood clots and restore healthy blood flow. Primarily, it is utilized for acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) to reopen blocked coronary arteries, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism to address thrombosis in dialysis fistulas or grafts.

Streptokinase is administered through the intravenous (IV) route. It may also be delivered through an arterial catheter for more localized treatment. Healthcare professionals perform administration following prescribed dosages and guidelines.

Common side effects include bleeding or bruising at the injection site, fever, and skin reactions like rash. More serious side effects can occur, such as significant bleeding, allergic reactions with symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing, and a sudden drop in blood pressure.

Streptokinase increases the risk of bleeding.  Serious allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties are rare but possible. This medication can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure. Some medications can interact with this medication and impact its safety and effectiveness.

Use Streptokinase cautiously in individuals with bleeding disorders, recent surgeries, ulcers, or other conditions that heighten bleeding risk. Watch for signs of allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties. Seek immediate medical attention if any allergic reactions occur. Monitor blood pressure during the administration of this medication..Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

Monitor for signs of allergic reactions, including rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Discontinue Streptokinase and seek medical attention immediately if any allergic symptoms occur. Use caution in individuals with a history of bleeding disorders, recent surgery, ulcers, or other conditions that might increase bleeding risk. Monitor blood pressure during administration and address any hypotensive episodes. Follow the prescribed dosage as directed by your healthcare provider. Individuals with severe liver or kidney impairment should talk to healthcare providers to assess their condition and determine the appropriate action. Use this medication cautiously in individuals who have recently undergone surgery or had significant trauma.

1. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Drugs affecting Coagulation, bleeding and thrombosis, 7th edition, 2013, 626.
2. Tetris Pharma Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [Revised on 18th Dec 2021] [Accessed on 25th 2023],   https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/13114/smpc#gref
3. Adinarayana Kunamneni, Thaer Taleb Abed Abdelghani, Poluri Ellaiah; Streptokinase--the drug of choice for thrombolytic therapy; Journal of Thrombosis and Thrombolysis; Published on Feb 2007; Accessed on 25/08/2023; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17111203/

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice, it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.