urokinase

Urokinase is a thrombolytic medication made from human neonatal kidney cells. Urokinase is an enzyme (protein) that disrupts the clotting cycle and breaks down blood clots lodged in the lungs in people with pulmonary embolism. The FDA approved urokinase under the brand name Kinlytic in 2007.

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Not in U.S.

Yes

Side effects of urokinase are bleeding, decreased hematocrit, chest pain, increased heart rate, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and anaphylaxis reactions.

Administer a loading dose of 4400 international units per kg intravenously over 10 minutes, followed by a continuous administration of 4400 international units per kg per hour intravenously for 12 hours. Repeat as necessary.

Safe and effective use of urokinase is not established for children.

Urokinase should be used with caution with other medications that alter platelet function and increase risk of bleeding. Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), warfarin (Coumadin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), clopidogrel (Plavix), and cilostazol (Pletal) should be used with caution with urokinase.

There are no adequate studies done on urokinase to determine safe and effective use in pregnant women. Urokinase should be only used if clearly needed.

It is not known whether urokinase enters breast milk. It is best to be cautious before using it in nursing mothers.

What preparations of urokinase-injection are available?

Urokinase available as sterile, lyophilized powder for solution for intravenous administration. Each vial contains 250,000 international units of urokinase activity.

How should I keep urokinase-injection stored?

Store urokinase vials in the fridge between 2 C to 8 C (36 F to 46 F).