Streptase vs. Activase

Are Streptase and Activase the Same Thing?

Streptase (streptokinase) and Activase (alteplase) are enzymes used in the treatment of heart attack or lung blood clots (pulmonary embolism) as well as leg blood clots (deep venous thrombosis-DVT).

The brand name drug Streptase is no longer available in the U.S. Generic forms may be available.

Side effects of Streptase and Activase that are similar include nausea, dizziness, low blood pressure (hypotension), mild fever, bleeding (including gastrointestinal bleeding, genitourinary bleeding, bruising, nosebleed, and bleeding gums), and allergic reactions (swelling, rash, hives).

Side effects of Streptase that are different from Activase include headache, rash, itching, flushing, muscle or bone pain, shivering, and nerve damage.

Side effects of Activase that are different from Streptase include vomiting.

Both Streptase and Activase may interact with blood thinners, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or aspirin.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Streptase?

Common side effects of Streptase include:

  • nausea,
  • headache,
  • dizziness,
  • low blood pressure,
  • mild fever,
  • bleeding from wounds or gums,
  • rash,
  • itching,
  • flushing,
  • muscle or bone pain,
  • shivering, and
  • allergic reactions.

Streptase can also cause nerve damage.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Activase?

Common side effects of Activase include:

    The most common side effect of Activase is bleeding, including gastrointestinal bleeding, genitourinary bleeding, bruising, nosebleed, and bleeding gums. Other side effects of Activase include:

    • nausea,
    • vomiting,
    • low blood pressure (hypotension),
    • dizziness,
    • mild fever, or
    • allergic reactions (swelling, rash, hives).

    What Is Streptase?

    Streptase (streptokinase) is an enzyme used in the treatment of heart attack or lung blood clots (pulmonary embolism) as well as leg blood clots (deep venous thrombosis-DVT). The brand name drug Streptase is no longer available in the U.S. Generic versions may be available.

    What Is Activase?

    Activase (alteplase) is an enzyme, which works to break up and dissolve blood clots that can block arteries, used in the treatment of an acute heart attack or pulmonary embolism.

SLIDESHOW

Spider & Varicose Veins: Causes, Before and After Treatment Images See Slideshow

What Drugs Interact With Streptase?

Streptase may interact with blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or aspirin. Drugs that can reverse effects of streptokinase include aminocaproic acid, aprotinin, and tranexamic acid. Tell your doctor all medications you are taking.

What Drugs Interact With Activase?

Activase may interact with blood thinners, or aspirin. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use. During pregnancy, Activase should be used only if prescribed. It is unknown if this drug is passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

How Should Streptase Be Taken?

Streptase (streptokinase) is given by injection by a health care professional. Dose is dependent upon the condition of the patient and response to treatment.

How Should Activase Be Taken?

The recommended total dose of Activase is based upon patient weight, not to exceed 100 mg.

QUESTION

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs in the _______________. See Answer

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References

Medscape. Streptase Drug Information.

https://www.medscape.com/answers/811234-88119/what-is-the-fda-recommended-regimen-of-streptokinase-for-thrombolytic-therapy-of-pulmonary-embolism-pe

Genentech. Activase Product Monograph.

https://www.activase.com

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