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Thrombolytic drugs are anticoagulants that work to dissolve blood clots.
Past clinical trials among nearly 60,000 patients have shown that thrombolytic therapy is associated with an 18 percent reduction in the odds of dying among those with suspected heart attack. Increasing age was strongly associated with the decision not to use thrombolytic therapy. Delay from time of experiencing symptoms of heart attack to receiving medical attention was also associated with lower use of thrombolysis. Thrombolytic therapy is most effective when fewer than six hours has elapsed from the onset of symptoms. Across a broad spectrum of costs, risks, and benefits, the administration of thrombolytic therapy to the elderly is, on average, a beneficial and cost-effective intervention.