Retavase is indicated for use in the management of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in adults for the improvement of ventricular function following AMI, the reduction of the incidence of congestive heart failure, and the reduction of mortality associated with AMI. Treatment should be initiated as soon as possible after the onset of AMI symptoms. |
Because thrombolytic therapy increases the risk of bleeding, including internal bleeding (such as intracranial, retroperitoneal, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, or respiratory), Retavase should be used only in those patients for whom its use is indicated in the prescribing information
(see "Indications" in the prescribing information). In addition, thrombolytic therapy increases the absolute risk of stroke, including hemorrhagic stroke, in patients of advanced age. Cholesterol embolism has been reported rarely in patients treated with thrombolytic agents. Coronary thrombolysis may result in arrhythmias associated with reperfusion (see "Warnings" in the prescribing information). |