Products
Urokinase is commercially available as a powder for the preparation of a solution for injection or infusion (Urokinase HS medac). The drug has been approved in many countries since 1988.
Structure and properties
Urokinase is a serine protease, which is extracted from human urine in China. It is also possible to produce it using biotechnological methods on cell cultures. Urokinase exists as a white, amorphous powder and is soluble in water.
Effects
Urokinase (ATC B01AD04) has fibrinolytic and thrombolytic properties. It is a direct plasminogen activator that converts plasminogen to plasmin. Plasmin dissolves fibrin and thus the blood clot.
Indications
For the treatment of acute vascular occlusion caused by thrombosis or embolism of the following types:
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Severe pulmonary embolism
- Peripheral vascular occlusion
- Hemodialysis shunts occluded by fibrin deposition.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug is administered intravenously.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include bleeding.
