Streptokinase

Streptokinase (STK) is a thrombolytic medication used to dissolve blood clots (thrombolysis) in human body. Streptokinase is used mainly treat heart attacks (myocardial infarction). There are 2 main types of heart attacks. STEMI and non-STEMI and Streptokinase is only used in STEMI type heart attacks after confirming with an ECG. It is given as an injection into a vein.

 Uses 
 Heart attack (STEMI Type)
 Pulmonary embolism - Blood clots in arteries of Lungs
 Arterial thromboembolism - Blood clots formed in arteries

 Side effects 
Common side effects of Streptokinase are;

 Nausea
 Bleeding tendency
 Low blood pressure
 Allergic reactions

It is not recommended to use streptokinase during the lifetime of a person more than once due to the risk of developing allergic reactions.

 Discovery 
Streptokinase was discovered in 1933 by American microbiologist, William S. Tillett, from a bacteria known as beta-hemolytic streptococci. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Streptokinase is no longer used in hospitals to treat heart attacks in many countries including United States. This is because it has been replaced by a medication called Tenecteplase, which has less side effects.

 References 

Category:Drugs
Category:Enzymes