Reteplase, r-PA injection
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What is reteplase injection?
RETEPLASE (Retavase®) is a thrombolytic agent. Thrombolytic agents dissolve blood clots that form in certain blood vessels. Reteplase is used when a blood clot in a heart artery causes a heart attack. Generic reteplase injections are not yet available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• aneurysm
• bleeding problems or problems with blood clotting
• blood vessel disease or damaged blood vessels
• diabetic retinopathy
• head injury or tumor
• high blood pressure
• infection
• irregular heartbeats
• receiving intramuscular injections
• recent biopsy or surgery
• an unusual or allergic reaction to reteplase, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Reteplase is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health-care professional in a clinic or hospital setting.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
This does not apply.What drug(s) may interact with reteplase?
• antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)
• aspirin and aspirin-like medicines
• blood thinners, like warfarin, heparin or enoxaparin
• dipyridamole
• fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids) supplements
• plicamycin
• some antibiotics
• sulfinpyrazone
• valproic acid
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking reteplase?
You will be closely monitored to check your progress after you have received reteplase. Follow your prescriber's advice exactly; you may need bed rest to minimize the risk of bleeding.
Reteplase can make you bleed more freely; this effect can last for several days. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth, and to avoid any other injury to yourself.
Do not take aspirin, ibuprofen, or other nonprescription pain relievers during or for several days after reteplase treatment unless otherwise instructed by your prescriber or health care professional.
What side effects may I notice from receiving reteplase?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• blood in the urine, stools, or vomit
• chest pain or tightness
• constipation
• fever
• severe headache
• shortness of breath
• skin rash
• slow or fast heart rate
• unusual bleeding, bruising, or purple spots on the skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• dizziness, lightheadedness
• nausea, vomiting
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
After mixing use at once; throw away any unused portions.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
