Urokinase, Injection

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: thrombolytic

Generic and brand names: urokinase, injection; Abbokinase

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is known as a thrombolytic agent. This medicine is given by injection (a shot) or IV infusion (slow drip into a large vein) to treat heart attacks by dissolving blood clots.

How do I use it?

This medicine works best when given at the first symptoms of a heart attack. The injections are usually given in a hospital.

What should I watch out for?

Beginning this treatment as soon as possible after you feel symptoms of a heart attack improves your chances of recovery.

Bleeding is the most common side effect. Your health care provider will check for bleeding and will try to avoid puncturing your skin whenever possible. If you notice any bleeding, tell your health care provider.

Tell your health care provider if you:

• have a history of bleeding problems or blood clotting
• take blood thinner medicines such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin
• have high blood pressure
• have recently had surgery.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Your health care provider will watch you closely to make sure the medicine is working and is not causing unwanted side effects. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your health care provider): Bleeding anywhere on your body, bloody or black tarry bowel movements, irregular heartbeat, fever, swelling, serious allergic reaction (hives, itching, rash, trouble breathing, chest pressure).

Other: Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, flushing, chills, fever.

What products might interact with this medicine?

When you take this medicine with other medicines, it can change the way this or any of the other medicines work. Nonprescription medicines, vitamins, natural remedies, and certain foods may also interact. Using these products together might cause harmful side effects. Talk to your health care provider if you are taking:

• aspirin
• blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin)
• dipyridamole (Persantine)
• heparin.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.