What are the side effects of Anistreplase?

Anistreplase, also known by its brand name Eminase, is a thrombolytic agent used in the medical field to treat acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) by dissolving blood clots in the arteries of the heart. While it can be highly effective in emergency situations, its use does come with a range of potential side effects that patients and healthcare providers should be aware of.

One of the most significant and common side effects of anistreplase is bleeding. This can range from minor bleeding episodes, such as nosebleeds or bleeding from the gums, to more severe and life-threatening conditions like gastrointestinal bleeding, intracranial hemorrhage, or severe bleeding at the site of injection. Because anistreplase acts to dissolve clots, it can impair the body’s ability to stop bleeding, making careful monitoring essential during treatment.

Another notable side effect is hypotension, or low blood pressure. This can manifest as dizziness, fainting, or light-headedness, and may require intervention to stabilize the patient’s blood pressure. In some cases, hypotension can be severe enough to necessitate discontinuation of the drug.

Allergic reactions are also possible, though less common. These can range from mild skin reactions like rash or itching to more severe responses such as anaphylaxis, which can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and a rapid drop in blood pressure. Immediate medical attention is crucial if an allergic reaction is suspected.

Some patients may experience cardiac arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats, which can occur due to the sudden restoration of blood flow to the heart. These arrhythmias can be mild and self-limiting, or they may be severe and require medical intervention, including medications or electrical cardioversion.

Gastrointestinal side effects, while less common, can also occur. These may include nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. In rare instances, more severe gastrointestinal complications like pancreatitis or peptic ulcers may develop.

Another possible side effect is fever, which may occur as a reaction to the drug itself or as part of a systemic inflammatory response. While usually not severe, fever can be uncomfortable and may necessitate additional supportive care.

Some patients may experience renal complications, particularly if they have pre-existing kidney conditions. These renal issues can include hematuria (blood in the urine) and, in rare cases, acute renal failure. Monitoring kidney function is important during treatment with anistreplase.

Headache is another potential side effect, which can range from mild to severe. Severe headaches may be indicative of intracranial bleeding and should be evaluated promptly.

In summary, while anistreplase can be life-saving during acute myocardial infarction, it is not without its risks. The most common and serious side effects include bleeding, hypotension, allergic reactions, cardiac arrhythmias, gastrointestinal issues, fever, renal complications, and headache. Healthcare providers must carefully weigh the benefits and risks when administering this drug and closely monitor patients for any signs of adverse reactions.