Intravenous alteplase is the standard thrombolytic agent for acute ischemic stroke within 4.5 hours after symptom onset. Reteplase, a recombinant plasminogen activator, is a potential alternative. Research findings are summarized in a new Quick Take video. https://nej.md/3VlxL0e | The New England Journal of Medicine

Alteplase is a type of fibrinolytic agent-or tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) - this means it is a "clot busting" medication! This drug works by activating an enzyme called plasmin, which aims to dissolve any thrombi in the body. So this is great for any vessel-occluding clots like we'd see in stroke or MI...but one major side effect we have to keep in mind is 🩸 bleeding! That's why we won't give it to clients on other anticoagulants, after recent surgery or trauma, or those who have brain tu