Choose to reperfuse: dissolve clots with Activase (t-PA)

View a video of Activase (t-PA) clot-busting in action.

Mechanism of action (MOA) of Activase (t-PA)

  • Activase® (alteplase)—a tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) enzyme—is produced by recombinant DNA technology
    • – For more information on recombinant technology products at Genentech, visit www.gene.com
  • When introduced into the systemic circulation, Activase:
    • – Binds to the fibrin protein threads of a thrombus
    • – Converts the enmeshed plasminogen to plasmin, initiating local fibrinolysis
    • – Produces limited conversion of plasminogen in the absence of fibrin, thus causing a limited systemic effect

The net physiologic effect of Activase (t-PA) is to:

  • Dissolve clots so that blood flow can be restored and viable tissue may be reperfused

A comprehensive slide presentation by Genentech provides more information on the pathophysiology of acute ischemic stroke and the clinical pharmacology of Activase (t-PA).

Indication: Activase is indicated for the management of acute ischemic stroke in adults for improving neurological recovery and reducing the incidence of disability. Treatment should only be initiated within 3 hours after the onset of stroke symptoms, and after exclusion of intracranial hemorrhage by a cranial computerized tomography (CT) scan or other diagnostic imaging method sensitive for the presence of hemorrhage (see CONTRAINDICATIONS in the full prescribing information).

Safety Information: All thrombolytic agents increase the risk of bleeding, including intracranial bleeding, and should be used only in appropriate patients. Not all patients with acute ischemic stroke will be eligible for Activase therapy, including patients with evidence of recent or active bleeding; recent (within 3 months) intracranial or intraspinal surgery, serious head trauma, or previous stroke; uncontrolled high blood pressure; or impaired blood clotting.


Site MapImportant Safety InformationAdditional IndicationPrescribing InformationCopyrightTerms and ConditionsPrivacy PolicyContact Us
The information contained in this site is intended for US residents only.