Introduction

Mechanism of Action more

Actilyse® acts similar to naturally occurring tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA).

When given to appropriately selected patients in a timely manner, Actilyse® has the potential to prevent ischaemic damage to brain tissue, and substantially reduce stroke mortality and disability. However, as with all thrombolytic agents used to treat acute thrombotic occlusions, Actilyse® increases the risk of intracerebral haemorrhage, and must be used only after careful evaluation of the potential benefits and risks.

Because of the nature of thrombolysis, Actilyse® is suitable for those patients who suffer an acute ischaemic stroke, which must be diagnosed using CT or MRI scanning techniques. The European Medicines Evaluation Agency (EMEA) has defined specific criteria for the use of Actilyse® in the labelling, which are fully supported by the manufacturer, Boehringer Ingelheim.
The drug will be supplied to centres which have the facilities to monitor the use of Actilyse® treatment and should only be administered by physicians trained and experienced in neurological care. Exclusion of haemorrhagic stroke by CT scan is essential and treatment must be started within three hours of onset of symptoms.