Making a case for the right "-ase" in acute ischemic stroke: alteplase, tenecteplase, and reteplase.

Making a case for the right "-ase" in acute ischemic stroke: alteplase, tenecteplase, and reteplase. Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2019 Feb 04;: Authors: Wyatt Chester K, Corrigan M, Schoeffler JM, Shah M, Toy F, Purdon B, Dillon GM Abstract INTRODUCTION: Alteplase, reteplase, and tenecteplase are tissue plasminogen activators (TPA) approved for the management of acute myocardial infarction. Only alteplase is also approved for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The US Food and Drug Administration has received reports of accidental administration of tenecteplase or reteplase instead of alteplase in patients with AIS, which can result in failure to treat patients with the intended agent and lead to potential overdose. Areas covered: This review compares the molecular and clinical features of alteplase, reteplase, and tenecteplase (TNK), identifies factors contributing to medication errors among these agents, and provides steps to reduce medication errors. Expert opinion: Primary factors contributing to medication errors among tissue plasminogen activators include use of the abbreviations "TPA," "tPA," or "TNK" in written or verbal orders and use of these agents in similar settings (eg, emergency departments and critical care areas). Steps to reduce the likelihood of accidental substitution of tenecteplase or reteplase for alteplase in patients with AIS include use of full brand or generic names and inclusion of the indication in wri...
Source: Expert Opinion on Drug Safety - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Tags: Expert Opin Drug Saf Source Type: research